Fifteen minutes into the second half, Kenya broke the deadlock. A superb free kick from the edge of the box by John Avire opened the score charts, his perfectly executed shot leaving Namibia's goalkeeper with
Kenya’s Harambee Stars secured their first win of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Tuesday, edging past Namibia 1-2 at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The double strikes for Kenya both came in the second half, first by John Avire from a free kick and another by Duke Abuya who pounced on a sumptuous delivery from Eric Marcelo.
Following a goalless draw against Zimbabwe in Kampala last Friday, Kenya, coached by Engin Firat, needed this victory to strengthen their position in Group J, coming into this match in second place behind leaders Cameron who had beaten Namibia in their opening encounter in Duoula.
After a goalless first half, Namibia started the second half aggressively, coming close just two minutes after the restart with a well-worked play. However, their effort was denied by the post, thanks to a slight touch from Kenyan keeper Byrone Odhiambo, keeping Kenya in the game.
Moments later, Kenya nearly took the lead when Avire’s curling left-footed shot struck the goalkeeper’s chest, with the rebound also landing directly into the keeper's hands.
Fifteen minutes into the second half, Kenya broke the deadlock. A superb free kick from the edge of the box by John Avire opened the score charts, his perfectly executed shot leaving Namibia's goalkeeper with no chance.
The home team, Namibia, mounted a fierce triple attack, with one shot ricocheting off the post and another deflected for a corner that yielded no results. However, it was Kenya who had a clever plan up their sleeve, turning the tide in their Favor with a lovely counter attack.
Duke Abuya sealed the victory for Kenya with a brilliant 77th minute finish, picking it up from a swift counter-attack. Erick Marcelo Otieno initiated the move with an exceptional drive, delivering a perfect pass into the box, where Abuya was perfectly positioned to slot it home.
Namibia secured a last minute consolation goal right on the final minute but it was too little too late as Kenya walked home with maximum points on the road.
The win puts Kenya at four points, with their position on the Group J table now depending on the outcome of the Cameroon vs. Zimbabwe match in Kampala.
Kenya’s Starting Line up: Byrne Odhoambo, Amos Nondi, Erick Ouma 'Marcelo', Joseph Okumu, Slyvester Owino, Antony Akumu, Rooney Onyango, Richard Odada, John Avire, Duke Abuya, Jonah Ayunga