Kenya’s Harambee Stars concluded their unsuccessful bid to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a lifeless 0-0 draw against Namibia in Polokwane, South Africa yesterday evening.
The match at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, was a dead rubber encounter, with neither team in contention for a spot in next year’s tournament in Morocco.
The game reflected the disappointing nature of Kenya’s campaign, offering little excitement or quality in attack.
The Harambee Stars managed only two clear-cut chances, neither on target, underlining their struggles throughout the qualifiers.
Head coach Engin Firat made significant changes to the lineup after their draw with Zimbabwe.
Captain Michael Olunga was left on the bench, with Anthony Akumu stepping in as skipper, possibly marking his final appearance in the national colours.
Firat paired Alfred Scriven and John Avire in attack, while midfield duties were handled by Akumu, Richard Odada, and Austin Odhiambo.
Kenya’s best opportunities came in the first half, both through headers. Scriven missed a chance to mark his debut with a goal, glancing Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma’s cross wide. Johnstone Omurwa also failed to capitalise on a freekick delivery from Odhiambo, sending his header off target.
Namibia looked more threatening in the second half, with Willy Stephanus forcing Kenyan goalkeeper Bryne Omondi into a save from the edge of the box.
Elmo Kambindu came close with a header, but the effort lacked power to cross the goal line.
The result leaves Kenya third in Group J with six points from one win and three draws, while Namibia finishes bottom with two points. Cameroon topped the group with 14 points after defeating Zimbabwe 2-1, with the Warriors securing second place on nine points.
Neighbors Tanzania secured a spot in the AFCON 2025 after beating Guinea 1-0 at home in Dar es Salaam.
