Harambee Stars defender Mandela earns accolades from Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of Russia clash

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STARS ABROAD Harambee Stars defender Mandela earns accolades from Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of Russia clash

Festus Chuma 12:30 - 11.10.2023

Mamelodi Sundowns congratulates defender Brian Onyango Mandela for Harambee Stars call-up ahead of significant friendly match against Russia.

South Africa Premier Soccer League side Mamelodi Sundowns has extended their warm congratulations to defender Brian Mandela for his invitation to the Harambee Stars squad. 

Mandela, 29, who has not only proven to be an asset to Sundowns but also an international player of repute, received the call from Kenya’s head coach Engin Firat for an international friendly showdown against Russia.

Mandela, known for his defensive prowess , has previously dazzled fans with two international goals since his debut with the national team in 2011.

 “Congratulations to Brian Onyango! Who has been called up to join the Kenyan national team!” announced Mamelodi Sundowns in a celebratory tone, marking the player's significant achievement.

As preparation kicks into high gear, Brian Mandela joined the Harambee Stars training camp this Monday in Turkey camp.

He will be teaming up with notable players like Michael Olunga of Al Duhail (Qatar Stars League), Joseph Okumu, Collins Sichenje, Erick Ouma, Rooney Onyango, and Masoud Juma, each bringing unique skills and experiences to the table.

The Kenyan squad made their arrival in Turkey on Tuesday, comprising fourteen players who formed the initial batch traveling on Monday. These dedicated athletes wasted no time and dove straight into their first training session on Tuesday morning in anticipation of the challenging match ahead.

“The Kenya National Team, Harambee Stars, kicked off preparations today, Tuesday, October 10, 2023, for the scheduled friendly match against Russia,” revealed a statement from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

In this squad, each player brings something special to the pitch. Among them are Patrick Matasi, Brian Bwire, Bryne Odhiambo, Daniel Sakari, Vincent Harper, Amos Nondi, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Alpha Onyango, Ovella Ochieng, Alfred Scriven, Cliffton Miheso, and Moses Shummah.

This eagerly awaited friendly match against Russia, scheduled for Monday, October 16, 2023, is not just another game; it serves as the final preparatory test for the Harambee Stars before they engage in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers starting this November.

The road to the World Cup is laden with challenges, as the Kenyan national team finds themselves pitted in Group F. In this group, they will face off against formidable opponents, including Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi, and Seychelles.