Brian Mandela and Masud Juma's exclusion from Harambee Stars squad explained

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FOOTBALL Brian Mandela and Masud Juma's exclusion from Harambee Stars squad explained

Festus Chuma 17:47 - 09.06.2023

Coach Firat will be without some of his key players for the Four-Nation Tournament.

Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has announced that defender Brian Mandela and striker Masud Juma will be absent from the upcoming Four-Nations Tournament in Mauritius. 

This unfortunate news comes as both players have been dealing with injuries, preventing participation in their respective clubs.

Mandela, who currently plays for South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns, has been a crucial figure in the Harambee Stars' defensive line. However, an injury setback has forced him to withdraw from the squad. 

Confirming Mandela's absence, coach Firat expressed his disappointment that the former Maritzburg United defender will not be part of the travelling squad.

"Brian Mandela is injured, and unfortunately, he will not be able to participate in the tournament," Firat said.

The coach also shed light on Juma's situation, revealing that the striker had been receiving treatment, but his condition was not promising. 

The Saudi Arabia-based striker has dealing with an ankle injury, but his absence from the team is undoubtedly a blow to the Harambee Stars' attacking options.

"Masud Juma was here in treatment, but it doesn't look so good," Firat explained.

These injuries have posed significant challenges for the Harambee Stars as they prepare for the Four-Nations Tournament. 

The absence of Mandela will require the team to find suitable alternatives to anchor the defence effectively. Additionally, Juma's absence will deprive the team of his goal-scoring prowess and attacking threat.

"There are some players we still have questions about and others we had in our mind, but we could not invite them because they still have matches to play before the end of the season in their leagues," the coach said as he acknowledged these setbacks.

Despite the absence of these key players, the gaffer remains optimistic and believes in the depth of his squad.

The Four-Nations Tournament in Mauritius is anticipated as an opportunity for Harambee Stars to showcase their skills and gain valuable international experience ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. 

Despite the challenges, the team will undoubtedly give their all to achieve success in Mauritius and make their nation proud.