Harambee Stars are currently tied at the top of Group J with Cameroon, as both teams prepare for a crucial two-legged showdown in October. Harambee Stars vice-captain, Joseph Okumu, has outlined the key factor that he believes will ensure Kenya secures a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Speaking after Kenya’s important 2-1 victory over Namibia in their Group J qualifier, Okumu emphasized that the team must display relentless determination and fight if they are to advance from the group and qualify for the prestigious continental tournament.
In Tuesday’s match, a second-half free-kick masterpiece from John Avire, followed by an excellent finish from Duke Abuya, secured all three points for Kenya. The match was held at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa. This victory gave a vital boost to Kenya’s qualification campaign, following a goalless draw against Zimbabwe in their opening fixture, which took place at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Uganda.
With this win, Kenya moved to the top of Group J, tied on points with Cameroon but holding a superior goal difference. Both teams now have four points, and the upcoming back-to-back matches against Cameroon in October will likely be decisive in determining Kenya’s qualification for AFCON 2025.
The top two teams from the group will earn their place in the tournament, set to take place in Morocco next year.
Reflecting on the hard-fought win against Namibia, Okumu acknowledged the difficulty of playing away but praised his teammates for their resilience. “It was a tough game playing away from home, but it was a good fight from the boys and a well-deserved win,” Okumu told OdiBets TV.
He noted Namibia’s aggressive play, especially in the first half, but credited Kenya’s ability to hold their ground as the key to their success. “They played at home and came with a lot of intensity, but the aim was to contain them in the first half and not concede. That helped us because in the second half, we had more energy than them, and that is what has helped us.”
Looking ahead to the decisive matches against Cameroon, Okumu stressed the importance of maintaining their fighting spirit. With the group still wide open, he believes that the team with the strongest desire and determination will ultimately prevail.
“We have to fight. The group remains open, and it is all about who wants it more,” he concluded.
