Firat sent a clear warning to Zimbabwe, advising them not to expect an easy match. "Just because we’re missing several players doesn’t mean it will be a walk in the park for Zimbabwe
Kenya’s Harambee Stars will be without their prolific striker Michael Olunga, who is sidelined with an injury sustained while playing for his club, Al Duhail. In Olunga’s absence, Stade de Reims defender Joseph Okumu will wear the captain’s armband, leading Kenya in their CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group J opener against Zimbabwe.
The match is set to take place on Friday evening at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Namboole, Kampala, Uganda.
Kenya's Group J includes former AFCON champions Cameroon and Namibia, making the opener against Zimbabwe crucial for their qualification campaign.
Olunga, who netted a hat trick earlier this year against Zimbabwe in the Four Nations tournament finals held in Malawi, leaves a huge void for coach Engin Firat. Without their star forward, Firat will turn to the likes of Benson Omalla, John Avire, and Jonah Ayunga to provide the attacking firepower.
Adding to Firat’s challenges, key players Masoud Juma and Ayub Timbe are also ruled out due to injury. During a pre-match interview in Kampala, Firat acknowledged the impact of Olunga’s absence, stating, "It’s a big problem for us because Michael, our main goal scorer, won’t be available. It’s a huge blow."
However, Firat sent a clear warning to Zimbabwe, advising them not to expect an easy match. "Just because we’re missing several players doesn’t mean it will be a walk in the park for Zimbabwe. I can assure them, it won’t be."
Captain Joseph Okumu also reflected on their previous encounters with Zimbabwe. "A few months ago, we played against them, and we know it will be a tough game. Although we will miss the support of our fans, I’m confident that even from here in Kampala, we’ll feel their support from home."