Kenya national team Harambee Stars concluded their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers with a 0-0 Group J draw against Namibia at Peter Makoba Stadium in Polokwane City, South Africa on Tuesday.
Kenya coach Engin Firat handed Byrne Omondi a start between the sticks, while the defense line revolved around Daniel Anyembe, Erick Ouma, Johnstoe Omurwa and Richard Odada.
Anthony Akumu led the midfield assited by Duke Abuya and Rooney Onyango while Austine Odhiambo, played behind striker John Avire and Alfred Scriven, who came in for his debut. Surprisingly, captain and leading striker Michael Olunga dropped to the bench same as defender Joseph Okumu.
Harambee Stars failed to earn a ticket to the African tournament as Cameroon and Zimbabwe qualified from the group. Kenya’s campaign started with a 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe, they recovered to beat Namibia 2-1.
However, their qualification campaign suffered a blow after they lost to Cameroon back-to-back. In the first meeting, Cameroon hammered Kenya 4-1 before winning their second 1-0.
Though they had qualification chances heading into their matchday five fixture against Zimbabwe, Harambee Stars failed to win the game coming from a goal down to secure a 1-1 draw, allowing the Warriors to qualify alongside the Indomitable Lions.
Harambee Stars will switch their focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March, 2025, with their first fixture pitting them against the Gambia on March 17th before hosting Gabon on March 24th.
Kenya, who are in Group F, have so far played four matches, and they sit fourth in Group F with five points, five less than table leaders Ivory Coast.
