Both players missed the team’s last two fixtures against Zimbabwe and Namibia but are now back in the squad ahead of their crucial doubleheader against Cameroon.
Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat is excited to have two key players back in the fold—Denmark-based defender Daniel Anyembe and team captain Michael Olunga—as Kenya prepares for important back-to-back matches against Cameroon in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The matches are set for this month, with Kenya facing the Indomitable Lions away on Friday, October 11, followed by a return leg in Uganda just four days later.
Firat, who has been managing injury-related challenges in recent games, is optimistic that the return of Anyembe and Olunga will strengthen the team as they aim to boost their chances of qualifying for AFCON 2025, scheduled to take place in Morocco. The coach emphasized the importance of their return, especially after their absence in last month’s fixtures against Zimbabwe and Namibia.
“We will have a much stronger squad going into the two matches against Cameroon because our key players Anyembe and Olunga are coming back to the squad after recovering from injuries,” Firat told Mozzart Sport.
Michael Olunga, Kenya’s top scorer and captain, was particularly missed in the match against Zimbabwe, where the Stars struggled to score, leading to a goalless draw. Firat’s decision not to start with a striker in that game drew criticism, with many attributing their inability to convert chances to Olunga’s absence.
With Olunga back in the lineup, Kenya’s attacking options will be much more dynamic, and Firat will rely on the captain to lead the team’s efforts in front of goal. Meanwhile, Daniel Anyembe’s return will provide much-needed defensive stability, adding both depth and experience as the team looks to build on their previous performances. Kenya secured a 2-1 victory over Namibia in their second qualifier, placing them at the top of their group with four points.
However, the upcoming matches against Cameroon will be decisive in shaping Kenya’s path to Morocco 2025. Firat understands that having a nearly full-strength squad will improve their prospects. Along with Olunga and Anyembe, the coach also addressed concerns about the fitness of other key players, such as Masoud Juma and Ayub Timbe, who might still miss out due to lack of match fitness.
“They have just resumed training and may be available for our final leg of the qualifiers,” Firat explained.
One logistical challenge for the Harambee Stars is the short turnaround between the two games.
With only four days separating the away match in Cameroon and the return fixture in Uganda, there are discussions about chartering a plane to ensure the team arrives in Uganda well-rested and prepared for the crucial game. In the past, the Kenyan government has arranged chartered flights for the national team, especially for matches in West Africa where regular flights can be difficult to schedule. Firat is hopeful that similar support will be provided this time to ensure the players are in peak condition for both fixtures.
