Kenya’s Harambee Stars kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a drab 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe at Stade Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, Uganda on Friday.
With injuries rocking his side ahead of the game, coach Engin Firat made a number of changes to his starting XI. Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi dropped to the bench with Bandari custodian Bryne Omondi getting the nod to start between the sticks against the Warriors.
Gor Mahia’s Alphonse Omija started at the back alongside Erik Ouma, who was making a return to the squad after a long absence owing to injury, while Reims defender Joseph Okumu started in the heart of the defence and was the captain of the side.
Sylvester Owino started at the back, Richard Odada, who recently signed for Dundee United on the Scottish Premiership, led the midfield role alongside Anthony Akumu, Rooney Onyango and Austin Odhiambo.
In the absence of lead striker Michael Olunga, Firat fielded two players in the attacking role – Duke Abuya, and Eric Johanna. Kenya had gone into the game as favourites, having beaten Zimbabwe in their last two meetings in all competitions.
They had beaten them 3-1 in the final of a Four-Nation tournament in Malawi before another 2-0 win during the 2024 edition of the COSAFA Cup in South Africa.
Zimbabwe also paraded their best squad with Jordan Zemura leading the line while Khama Billiat came straight into the starting XI after rescinding his retirement plans and being named in the team for the qualifiers.
Kenya’s lack of experienced strikers proved tough for the side as they squandered many chances created in the opening exchanges. Duke Abuya was the culprit missing two glorious chances before Austin Odhiambo saw his rasping effort from outside the box go inches wide with keeper Washington Arubi rooted to the ground.
Kenya will next face Namibia at Orlando Stadium in South Africa on Tuesday, September 10 the same day Zimbabwe will host Cameroon at Mandela Stadium in Uganda.
Kenya starting XI: Bryne Omondi (GK), Alphonce Omija, Erick Ouma, Joseph Okumu (C), Sylvester Owino, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Rooney OnyangoAustin Odhiambo, Duke Abuya and Eric Johanna.
Zimbabwe starting XI: Washington Arubi (GK), Godknows Murwira, Munashe Garan’anga, Gerald Takwara, Jordan Zemura, Andy Rinomhota, Marshall Munetsi (C), Walter Musona, Khama Billiat, Tawanda Chirewa and Prince Dube.