Ahead of Harambee Stars’ second AFCON 2025 qualifier against Namibia on Tuesday, here’s how Engin Firat is likely to set up the team.
The Kenya national football team, Harambee Stars, will face Namibia in their second Group J match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, aiming to qualify for the tournament for the first time since 2019.
Kenya will be looking for a positive result after a disappointing draw against Zimbabwe last Friday, which would ease the pressure on head coach Engin Firat.
With the match set to take place in South Africa at 7 PM East African time, here is the predicted lineup for tonight:
GK – Byrne Omondi
Byrne Omondi made a surprising but well-earned return to the starting lineup against Zimbabwe, having missed out since a leg injury during a friendly against Russia last October. Now with consistent playing time at Bandari, Omondi impressed with his distribution and composure. As Firat’s preferred goalkeeper, he is expected to retain his spot.
RB – Amos Nondi
Amos Nondi is set to start at right back in place of Alphonce Omija, who returned to his club after picking up a knock during the 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe. While Nondi is primarily a midfielder, he is the best alternative for the right-back position, especially with Alwyn Tera also available in the squad.
CB – Joseph Okumu
Joseph Okumu will likely start on the right side of the defense and once again wear the captain’s armband, as Michael Olunga is unavailable. Okumu’s leadership and defensive skills will be crucial against Namibia.
CB – Sylvester Owino
Sylvester Owino of Gor Mahia is expected to continue as Okumu’s defensive partner, as he did against Zimbabwe. Although Shariff Majabe of Bandari is another option, Owino’s solid performance makes him the likely starter.
LB – Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma
Despite being substituted in the match against Zimbabwe, Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma traveled with the team to South Africa, suggesting he will be fit to start at left back. We expect Ouma to be chosen over Abud Omar for this game.
RW – Rooney Onyango
Rooney Onyango has been a regular starter on the right wing since his debut against Russia last October and is expected to feature again in this match.
CM – Teddy Akumu
A key figure under Engin Firat, Anthony “Teddy” Akumu is expected to start in central midfield, providing the defensive stability needed in the middle of the park.
CM – Richard Odada
Richard Odada has been Akumu’s partner in midfield for over a year, and this pairing is likely to remain intact against Namibia, forming a reliable central duo.
LW – Austin Odhiambo
Austin Odhiambo performed reasonably well as a left winger against Zimbabwe, especially in the second half when he linked up well with Marcelo. His creativity and relationship with Ouma make him a likely starter again.
AM – Duke Abuya
With Firat likely to employ a counter-attacking strategy, Duke Abuya’s off-the-ball movement and dynamic ball-carrying abilities make him a great asset. His skills in transition could see him start over Kenneth Muguna.
CF – John Avire
In the match against Zimbabwe, Firat opted for a false nine setup with Abuya and Eric Johana, which didn’t produce the desired results. This time, we predict John Avire, who came on as a substitute, will start as the central forward. Avire’s ability to hold up the ball and his aggressive style of play could be key in creating space for Abuya and causing problems for Namibia’s defense. With Michael Olunga unavailable, Avire is the preferred option over Benson Omala and Jonah Ayunga.
