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Russia narrowly defeated five-time African champions Cameroon 1-0, gearing up for their friendly against Kenya's Harambee Stars in Antalya.
Harambee Stars opponents Russia emerged triumphant against the five-time African champions Cameroon in a tight contest, which ended 1-0 in favor of the hosts.
The friendly match took place at the VTB-Arena in Moscow, with over 20,150 fans in attendance.
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12:30 - 10.10.2023
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It was a significant showdown, especially given that the Russian side was returning from an international hiatus due to the conflict in Ukraine.
The lone goal of the game came in the 40th minute, courtesy of CSKA Moscow striker Fyodor Chalov.
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15:30 - 11.10.2023
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Despite the Indomitable Lions' strong start, dominating the first 30 minutes and creating numerous opportunities, their efforts went unrewarded.
The shift in momentum occurred post the goal, with Russia taking control and asserting dominance, especially in the second half.
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12:30 - 11.10.2023
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It is worth noting that the iconic former striker and current president of Cameroon's football federation, Samuel Eto’o, was present, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. His presence, however, could not galvanize the African football powerhouse to find the back of the net.
Russia’s goalkeeper, Sazonov, stood out with some commendable saves, preventing Cameroon forwards from equalising.
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14:06 - 08.10.2023
FOOTBALL Nine top players missing from Engin Firat's Harambee Stars squad for Russia friendly
Notable omissions from the Harambee Stars squad raise questions as fans wonder about the rationale behind the coach's choices.
The Russian team's journey back into international football has been challenging, as their exclusion meant facing relatively lower-ranked teams like Iran, Iraq, and Qatar.
The match against Cameroon marks a significant stride as they inch closer to top-tier international football. This win is expected to boost the morale of Valeri Karpin’s squad as they prepare for more challenging fixtures.
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16:02 - 08.10.2023
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A section of Harambee Stars fans have expressed their displeasure at the exclusion of Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala from the team set to face Russia in a friendly match
Russian national team are at a stable 39th place in the FIFA World Rankings, nestled between Ecuador and Nigeria.
Kenya, ranked 109th globally, is set to face Russia in an international friendly on Monday, October 16, in Antalya, Turkey. This clash serves as the final test for Engin Firat's men as they gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers commencing in November.
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11:33 - 08.10.2023
FOOTBALL Free agent Ovella Ochieng back as Engin Firat names Harambee Stars squad to face Russia
Ovella has been a free agent since being released by Richards Bay at the end of last season.
Harambee Stars are grouped in the challenging Group F for the World Cup Qualifiers, which includes formidable opponents like Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi, and Seychelles.
This friendly against Russia provides Kenya with an excellent opportunity to gauge their preparedness and identify areas that require tightening.
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