Former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech has explained why he believes it would have been wiser to play Harambee Stars’ home matches in Uganda or Tanzania instead of Malawi.
Kenya is set to host Burundi and Ivory Coast in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers but won’t have home support due to a lack of approved venues. Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums are undergoing renovations ahead of CHAN 2024 and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
This situation has forced Kenya to seek alternative venues, with Malawi chosen after hosting Kenya in the Four-Nations tournament in March. However, legendary striker Oliech argues that it would have been easier for Kenyan fans to travel to a neighboring country like Uganda or Tanzania, offering better support compared to the logistical challenges posed by Malawi.
“Why should we go so far, why not Uganda or Tanzania? They now even feel they are better than us, so we have to face the consequences. Tanzania and Uganda are our friends; why can’t we ask them to give us a venue?” Oliech told Pulse Sports.
Oliech believes it will be difficult for Kenya to win without a supportive crowd and would have preferred a venue closer to home, as many Kenyans are eager to travel.
“The chances of winning are now less, but it is football, and you cannot predict what will happen. However, the game should not have gone that far. I was ready to travel to Tanzania,” Oliech added.
“I remember when we played against Uganda in Kampala and how many people traveled. I hired two buses, and we had like 60 people. So, tell me about Malawi now?
“They have taken it too far; maybe they have their own reasons. But if we were to travel to Uganda, Tanzania, or Rwanda, a ticket is affordable.”
Playing in Uganda would not have been possible since the Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), recently approved by CAF, will be used by the Uganda Cranes for their home matches against Botswana and Algeria next month.
Tanzania could have been the best option, as the Taifa Stars will be playing away against Zambia.
