Preview: Harambee Stars confront Namibia in AFCON Qualifier

 The national football men’s team Harambee Stars have what it takes to silence Namibia in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match to be staged at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa tonight from 7pm,  former international Boniface Ambani has said.

Kenya drew 1-1 against Zimbabwe in their Group ‘J’ opener on Friday in Uganda and Ambani, known for his knack of banging goals in his heyday is hopeful that head coach Engin Firat  “will get it right with his selection which should be attack minded.”

“There is a possibility (of winning) and I hope the coach will get it right in the team selection. We should not repeat what happened against Zimbabwe by benching all our strikers.

How will you score if you leave strikers on the bench? So at the end of the day, we wish the national team well tonight,”Ambani said.

Against Zimbabwe, Firat started without a recognised out and out striker with John Avire, Benson Omala and Victor Omune all left on the bench while skipper Michael Olunga missed due to injury.

“Interestingly, I usually don’t front anyone to start as the focal striker. The coach can start any striker of his choice amongst those options available in the squad because they have an equal chance to play,”Ambani added.

However, Ambani has warned Stars against underrating Namibia terming it a side that can cause problems “if we take them for granted”.

“Namibia is a good side and we should not underrate them. Harambee Stars should remain focused and be determined.

The Michael Olunga-less Stars will also have to do without Gor Mahia right back Alphonse Omija who was injured in the first match with left back Eric Ouma also doubtful for the game. Kenya has won two and drew an equal number against the Namibians in their last four meetings.

Meanwhile, Kenya’s  other Group ‘J’ opponents Cameroon will be playing Zimbabwe in Uganda with the Indomitable Lions leading the Group with three points while Kenya and Zimbabwe have a point each.

Group leaders and runners-up will qualify for the AFCON 2025 tournament set for Morocco.

The last time Kenya qualified for the continent’s top competition was in 2019 in Egypt.