Why Portugal-based Kenyan defender will miss Harambee Stars tie

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FOOTBALL: Why Portugal-based Kenyan defender will miss Harambee Stars tie

Festus Chuma 06:30 - 12.09.2023

Harambee Stars will miss defender in the friendly against South Sudan to be played at Kasarani.

Kenya national team Harambee Stars is preparing to face South Sudan in a friendly match, but they will be doing so without one of their key players, defender Johnstone Omurwa.

The game, which will be held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at MISC Kasarani at 4 pm, will miss the dynamism Omurwa brings to the pitch.

The 25-year-old, who had displayed an admirable performance in the recent match against Qatar, playing the full 90 minutes and helping Kenya secure a 2-1 victory, will not be part of the squad against South Sudan. 

However, it is not an injury or a tactical decision; rather, it is a significant club commitment that has prompted his return to Portugal.

Omurwa, now an essential part of the Portuguese Primeira Liga side Estrela da Amadora, is required back in Lisbon for a pivotal match against the formidable Porto. 

This clash of titans, set to take place on Friday at Estádio José Gomes, has necessitated Omurwa's early departure from the national team camp.

Harambee Stars’ head coach, Engin Firat, opened up about the situation, highlighting the delicate balance between club and country commitments for players.

"Omurwa's team faces a challenging match against Porto. The club has repeatedly asked for support, especially as he's securing his place on the team. Maintaining a good relationship is essential for the future and beneficial for the team,” Firat expressed.

While the absence of Omurwa will certainly be felt, it is an opportunity for other players to step up. 

It offers a chance for some new combinations in the defense line, which can provide essential insights into the team's depth and versatility.

The recent victory against Qatar has boosted the team’s  morale, with Joseph Okumu and Amos Nondi finding the back of the net for the Stars. 

Peter Oluoch, a long-time Harambee Stars fan, voiced his optimism. "It's undoubtedly a loss not to have Omurwa on the field. But this is football; players come and go. What remains consistent is the spirit of the team. I'm hopeful that the boys will give us a show worth remembering," he said.

South Sudan, undoubtedly aware of Omurwa’s absence, might view this as a potential advantage. 

Meanwhile, the Stars will look to show their resilience and demonstrate that while they respect their opponents, they are not to be underestimated, even without one of their star players.