Kenya were wasteful with the few chances they created, despite dominating possession in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. Kenya and Zimbabwe played out a goalless draw in the Group J opener, held at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, Uganda.
Harambee Stars were forced to use a neutral venue in Uganda since Kenya lacks a stadium that meets the standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA to host international matches.
Kenya’s head coach Engin Firat fielded several regulars, including captain Michael Olunga, defender Johnstone Omurwa, and IF Elfsborg midfielder Timothy Ouma. Early in the game, Eric Johanna troubled Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper Washington Arubi with a shot from outside the box.
Shortly after, Antony Akumu had a golden chance with a free header, but he directed it into the ground, giving Arubi a chance to make a last-ditch save. In the 20th minute, play was halted after Omija collided with goalkeeper Bryne Omondi, resulting in his substitution by Amos Nondi.
Zimbabwe remained defensively compact, relying on counter-attacks led by their lone striker, Prince Dube. They came close to scoring late in the first half, but Joseph Okumu cleared Jordan Zemura’s goal-bound effort after goalkeeper Brian Omondi was beaten. The first half’s pace was sluggish, favoring the visitors.
After halftime, Kenya increased their tempo in search of a breakthrough. Midfielder Austin Odhiambo came close in the 52nd minute with a shot from the edge of the box, but Zimbabwe’s Godknows Murwira cleared the danger.
Zimbabwe’s best chance came when Khama Billiat’s powerful strike from the edge of the area flew just over the bar. Kenya continued to press, with Duke Abuya creating several opportunities, though Eric Johanna’s shots lacked precision. Substitute Jonnah Avire nearly made an instant impact after replacing Johanna, but his shot, following a delivery from Eric Ouma, went narrowly wide.
In the 77th minute, Zimbabwe’s Tawanda Maswanhise nearly snatched a win with a long-range effort, forcing a fine save from Brian Omondi. Zimbabwe defended resolutely in the final 10 minutes, frustrating Kenya’s attempts to find a winner. Prince Nxumalo had a late opportunity to seal the game for Zimbabwe, but the South Africans survived yet another penalty appeal.
Both coaches agreed that the second half was more open, and with a bit of luck, either side could have secured the victory.
