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Harambee Stars' friendly draw with Russia highlights their potential and areas for improvement as they gear up for World Cup qualifiers.
Harambee Stars recently engaged in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Russia, offering fans a taste of the team's potential as they gear up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The match, held at the Mardan Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkey, served as a valuable warm-up, providing insights into the team's strengths and areas for improvement.
Despite the late equaliser by Russia, Harambee Stars showcased commendable skill against a top European opponent, setting the stage for a promising journey in the upcoming qualifiers.
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15:04 - 18.10.2023
FOOTBALL David Ouma reveals why Harambee Stars can qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup
Kenya have been drawn in Group F alongside Seychelles and Gabon, The Gambia, Burundi, and Ivory Coast.
The performance against Russia highlighted the team's capability to compete with higher-ranked teams, a crucial trait as they find themselves in Group F alongside Seychelles, Burundi, Gambia, Gabon, and Ivory Coast.
The draw against Russia emphasised the need for strategic decisions and consistent player selections, especially considering the late changes that impacted the match outcome.
Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat faces the challenge of refining the team's tactical approach and learning from the experiences of the friendly.
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08:06 - 17.10.2023
FOOTBALL Eight lessons learnt from Harambee Stars draw against Russia
In their first-ever meeting, Kenya settled for a 2-2 draw against Russia in an international friendly.
A standout in the midfield, Richard Odada's performance against Russia demonstrated his adaptability and effectiveness. His resilience, especially after a challenging period with the Philadelphia Union, signifies positive development for Harambee Stars.
Odada's contribution brings stability and control to the midfield, crucial elements for success in international competitions. His ability to hold his own against a formidable opponent like Russia underscores not only his individual skills but also his capacity to positively influence the overall team's performance.
The absence of Daniel Anyembe, the Denmark-based right back, was felt in the recent friendly against Russia. Anyembe's historical significance in the right-back position for Kenya, coupled with his past performances, highlights the need for his inclusion in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
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06:00 - 18.10.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Stars: Has Firat found his team for 2026 World Cup qualifiers?
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat seems to have settled on a core of players whom seems to trust which points to how he plans to select his team for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers
The friendly against Russia, while a warm-up match, provided valuable insights into the challenges Harambee Stars might face in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Securing a draw against a team that hosted the 2018 World Cup and is significantly higher in the FIFA rankings serves as a confidence booster. However, lapses in concentration and execution in moments of the match suggest areas for improvement, emphasising the need for consistent performance throughout the entire match.
The inclusion of Rooney Onyango in the starting lineup for his international debut added an element of surprise for followers of Harambee Stars. The Gor Mahia defender showcased promise and composure in a match of significant importance, contributing to the team's defensive solidity.
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14:04 - 18.10.2023
FOOTBALL EXCLUSIVE: Harambee Stars goalkeeper to undergo surgery after sustaining injury in Russia draw
The 26-year-old, who has established himself as Harambee Stars’ first-choice goalkeeper, limped off in the 14th minute during the side’s 2-2 draw with Russia.
Onyango's emergence, along with other young talents, signals a positive future for Kenyan football. As the team builds for the qualifiers, integrating young and talented players becomes crucial for long-term success.
Michael Olunga, the team's talisman, displayed leadership on the field but had a mixed performance against Russia. Despite missing several scoring opportunities, Olunga's role as a leader is pivotal for Harambee Stars.
His yellow card, a result of frustration with the referee, highlights the need for consistency and efficiency in front of goal.
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17:00 - 17.10.2023
FKFPL Firat in awe of Gor Mahia star after impressive debut for Harambee Stars
The new Gor Mahia right back is going from strength to strength, and his impressive debut for Harambee Stars against Russia is sure to make him a bonafide star in the future.
As the team's focal point, Olunga's form will play a decisive role in determining their success in the upcoming qualifiers. Lessons learned from his performance highlight the importance of precision and focus in critical moments.
Looking ahead to the World Cup qualifiers, Harambee Stars must capitalise on their demonstrated potential against Russia. The draw served as a testament to their ability to compete at a high level, but refining tactical strategies and addressing areas for improvement will be key.
Engin Firat, in selecting his starting eleven, must strike a balance between experience and emerging talent, considering the positive impact of players like Richard Odada and Rooney Onyango.
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11:52 - 17.10.2023
FOOTBALL Michael Olunga: Harambee Stars captain’s performance divides opinion among Kenyans
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga was the subject of criticism from a section of Kenyans who feel he has not been impressive for the national team in recent matches
The team must focus on consistency and efficiency in all aspects of the game, learning from both successes and shortcomings in the friendly against Russia.
There is also the issue of goalkeeping with Bryne Omondi set to undergo surgery and looks set to miss the opening encounters against Seychelles and Gabon. Patrick Matasi and Brian Bwire will jostle for the number one slot but who will be trusted by Firat?
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