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Harambee Stars struggled to capitalize on their dominance in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier played at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala.
Harambee Stars were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by Zimbabwe in their 2025 African Nations Cup (AFCON) qualifier in Kampala on Friday‚ an inability to turn dominant possession into goals.
They created numerous scoring opportunities‚ but were wasteful in front of goal against a side who were out for a point from the first minute.
Pulse Sports rates the performance of the Harambee Stars players.
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18:32 - 06.09.2024
Toothless Harambee Stars kick off 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign with draw against Zimbabwe
Kenya were wasteful with the few chances they got in a game where they dominated ball possession during their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Bryne Omondi: 6/10
Stepping in for the regular keeper Patrick Matasi, Bryne Omondi had a decent outing between the posts.
He appeared a bit shaky initially but settled as the game progressed, managing his defense effectively and avoiding critical errors.
His ball distribution from the back was noteworthy, maintaining his reputation as one of the team's best passers.
Alphonce Omija: N/A
Alphonce Omija was solid, if unspectacular, on the defensive end during the brief period he played before getting injured.
He managed some timely tackles and maintained composure under duress, providing a calm presence at the back. Omija was replaced by Amos Nondi in the 20th minute due to his injury.
Given his early exit, it would be unfair to rate his performance based on such limited playtime.
However, his impact was limited and he often found himself overshadowed by the dynamics at the front.
Erick Ouma: 7/10
Erick Ouma was more active player dealing effectively with Zimbabwe's attacking threats and contributing offensively as well.
His defensive work included several key blocks and clearances, and he tried to support the attack with mixed results.
Despite a few missed opportunities in front of the goal, his overall performance was commendable, though he walked off the pitch with an injury in the closing stages.
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11:25 - 06.09.2024
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Joseph Okumu: 6/10
Joseph Okumu was a fortress in defense, frequently stepping up to intercept and launch the ball forward.
His technical abilities shone, though his offensive surges sometimes lacked the final productive pass. Nonetheless, his defensive prowess kept Zimbabwe's chances minimal.
Sylvester Owino: 5/10
Making his debut, the Gor Mahia man Owino performed admirably in what is a new environment alongside new players for him.
The defender kept things simple at the back showing good distribution and organisational skills throughout the match.
Richard Odada: 5/10
Richard Odada had a quieter game than usual, marked by a yellow card for a needless challenge that could have been costly.
His passing was less precise in the second half, contributing to a disjointed midfield play which hampered the team’s ability to sustain pressure.
Anthony Akumu: 5/10
Anthony Akumu was the linchpin in midfield connecting plays and maintaining high energy throughout the game.
His defensive work was as impressive as his distribution, though he struggled to influence the game in the final third, which reflected the team’s overall frustration.
Rooney Onyango: 6/10
Rooney Onyango saw a lot of the ball, particularly in the early stages, initiating several attacks with his long passes. Despite his efforts, many of his forward balls did not find their targets, which limited his effectiveness as the game progressed.
Austin Odhiambo: 6/10
Austin Odhiambo was dynamic down the wing, making powerful runs that troubled the Zimbabwe defense. His attempts at goal, particularly a notable curling shot, were off mark but he remained one of the more threatening players on the pitch.
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09:30 - 03.09.2024
Will Benson Omala sufficiently fill Michael Olunga's striking boots at Harambee Stars amidst injury woe?
Olunga is unlikely to be available for Harambee Stars' first two AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia due to injury which leaves the center forward option up for grabs.
Duke Abuya: 6/10
Duke Abuya's performance was one of the highlights for Harambee Stars. His crosses and passes created opportunities, though the forwards failed to capitalize on them. His proactive play was crucial, but the lack of finishing touch was a significant limitation.
Eric Johana: 5/10
Eric Johana put in a lot of effort with frequent running and passing, but he struggled to make a definitive impact.
His lack of creativity and urgency was apparent, leading to his replacement by John Avire, who brought more energy to the attack.
Substitutes:
John Avire: 5/10
Coming on for Eric Johana, John Avire added much-needed vigor and nearly made a mark with a chance at goal. His willingness to challenge defenders was a bright spot in the otherwise static attack.
Amos Nondi: 6/10
One of the best talents in the country playing abroad, Nondi replaced the injured Alphonce Omija in the 21st minute and demonstrated his strength and steel in defense, as well as his eye for a pass. The youngster delivered an admirable performance, arguably one of his best in a Harambee Stars jersey.
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10:40 - 06.09.2024
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Aboud Omar & Alwyn Tera
Both substitutes had limited time to influence the game, with Aboud Omar barely touching the ball and Alwyn Tera coming on too late to be rated. Their contributions were minimal in the context of the match's outcome.
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