Harambee Stars' 2019 AFCON stalwart eyes return after three years in the cold

Harambee Stars' 2019 AFCON stalwart eyes return after three years in the cold

Mark Kinyanjui 18:00 - 17.07.2024

The former Gor Mahia defender, who played a key role at Harambee Stars' AFCON 2019 campaign, is targeting a return to the national set up after three years in the cold.

Kenya Police captain Musa Mohammed is eyeing a return to the Kenya national team Harambee Stars, after almost three years in the cold.

The seasoned defender, who previously captained both Harambee Stars and Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, enjoyed an exceptional season with the law enforcers, leading them to the FKF Cup title.

Musa, who was part of the Harambee Stars squad at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, is known for his versatility across all defensive positions. 

Despite his aspirations, he faces stiff competition for a starting berth from Joseph Okumu of French club Reims, Bristol City’s Zak Vyner Onyengo, Alphonce Omija and Johnstone Omurwa, formerly of Portuguese side Estrela da Amadora, under the guidance of coach Engin Firat.

“I believe I am experienced enough and have been outstanding among my teammates. I can still play a big part in the national team at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in September, the 2025 Cup of Nations qualifiers, and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers,” said Trump as quoted on The Star.

“I like challenges and I am working hard. Given a chance, I can still play a part in the national team," added the hard-tackling defender.

Musa's journey began when he joined the late James Siang'a's Gor Mahia in 2008 while still a student at Langata High School. 

He made his international debut in 2011 and captained the national team to victory in the 2017 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup. With 34 caps to his name, Musa remains a stalwart in Kenyan football.

Since joining Kenya Police FC in 2022, Musa has played over 30 games, scoring one league goal. His season culminated in converting his penalty during the FKF Cup final, where they triumphed over KCB 8-7 after a goalless draw.

Reflecting on the FKF Cup victory, Musa said, “Winning the title felt great since the bankers pushed us to the limit. 

“We beat them in experience. We have a great squad which boasts of eight internationals from different countries. Our cohesion, teamwork, and management's vision helped us last season.”

Musa anticipates that the management will bolster the squad ahead of pre-season training to add depth as they aim to wrestle the Kenyan Premier League title from Gor Mahia. 

“We finished third in the KPL behind Tusker and record champions Gor Mahia. However, we gave them a run for their money by grabbing four points from them. No other team managed that,” said the defender.

Kenya Police FC is set to face Ethiopian Coffee in the preliminary round of their maiden CAF Confederation Cup appearance in September. Musa, who has previously played at this stage with Gor Mahia and Zambian side Nkana, expects a tough game but remains confident in his team's abilities.

“We have experience and the drive to succeed. I believe we can overcome the Ethiopians and book a date with the Egyptian side, Zamalek,” Musa concluded.

As Musa Mohammed prepares for the upcoming season and a potential national team comeback, his leadership and experience will undoubtedly be pivotal for both Kenya Police FC and Harambee Stars.

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