As 2024 approaches, a crucial year for Harambee Stars with the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, and the 2024 CHAN on their home turf, questions arise about the team’s readiness after a mixed 2023.
The year 2023 was significant for Harambee Stars for several reasons. Firstly, the team was able to participate in FIFA-recognized matches after the ban on Kenyan football was lifted in late 2022. Secondly, Engin Firat was appointed as the permanent coach after initially taking the role on a probationary basis in 2021, following a disappointing 2022 World Cup qualification. The team also played historic friendly matches against high-profile teams like Qatar, Russia, and Iran.
Harambee Stars’ competitive play resumed in November with their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. They faced a loss against Gabon but secured a significant victory over Seychelles. Under Firat’s leadership, the team played eight games, offering insights into their performance and potential.
A Breakdown of the Eight Matches:
- Against Iran, Kenya lost 2-1, highlighting issues in set-piece situations and individual performances. Despite some questionable refereeing, the team’s lack of cohesion was evident, though the effort was commendable given their two-year hiatus from playing together.
- At the Mauritius Four Nations Tournament, Kenya won against Pakistan but lost to Mauritius, exposing weaknesses in set-piece defending and difficulty in converting possession into clear scoring opportunities.
- During the September international break, Kenya’s performance against Qatar showcased effective transitional play, but they suffered a setback with a loss to South Sudan, highlighting issues in breaking down low-block defenses.
- In October, Kenya drew with Russia, indicating their capability to compete with higher-ranked teams, but the match also revealed defensive vulnerabilities.
- In November, the absence of key players like Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma and Joseph Okumu was felt, though the team showed signs of settling, especially in defense.
Key Areas of Focus for 2024:
- Set-piece defending and breaking down low-block defenses are crucial areas needing improvement.
- Firat has experimented with various players in the attacking midfield and wide positions, seeking the right combination to enhance the team’s offensive capabilities.
- Captain Michael Olunga’s performance has been a topic of debate. While his overall contribution is valuable, he needs to be more clinical in front of goal.
- The upcoming FKF elections could impact Firat’s future with the team.
In summary, 2024 is set to be a monumental year for Harambee Stars. Their performance in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the AFCON 2025 qualifiers will be crucial, and the CHAN 2024, potentially held in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, offers an opportunity for local players to shine. Firat’s task is to refine the team’s strategy and cohesion to ensure they are ready for these significant challenges.
