Former international Boniface Ambani believes Harambee Stars have what it takes to overcome Namibia in tonight’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, set to take place at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, at 7pm.
Kenya played to a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in their Group ‘J’ opener last Friday in Uganda, and Ambani, known for his goal-scoring prowess during his playing days, is optimistic that head coach Engin Firat will make attack-focused selections this time.
“There is a possibility of winning, and I hope the coach gets it right with the team selection. We shouldn’t repeat the mistake made against Zimbabwe by leaving all our strikers on the bench. How will you score if you leave strikers on the bench? At the end of the day, we wish the national team well tonight,” Ambani said.
In the match against Zimbabwe, Firat opted not to start a recognized striker, leaving John Avire, Benson Omala, and Victor Omune on the bench, while captain Michael Olunga was unavailable due to injury.
“Interestingly, I don’t have a preference for who should start as the main striker. The coach can choose any striker from the available options because they all have an equal chance to play,” Ambani added.
However, Ambani also cautioned the team against underestimating Namibia, a side he believes could pose a challenge if not taken seriously. “Namibia is a good team, and we shouldn’t underrate them. Harambee Stars must stay focused and determined,” he warned.
Harambee Stars will again be without Michael Olunga, and will also miss Gor Mahia right-back Alphonse Omija, who was injured in the previous game. Left-back Eric Ouma is also doubtful for the match. In their last four meetings with Namibia, Kenya has won twice and drawn twice.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s other Group ‘J’ rivals, Cameroon, will be playing Zimbabwe in Uganda. The Indomitable Lions currently lead the group with three points, while Kenya and Zimbabwe have one point each. The top two teams in the group will qualify for the 2025 AFCON tournament, set to be held in Morocco.
Kenya last qualified for Africa’s premier competition in 2019, when the tournament was hosted in Egypt.
