Harambee Stars hold final training session as they eye revenge against Cameroon

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Harambee Stars hold final training session as they eye revenge against Cameroon

Festus Chuma 15:00 - 13.10.2024

Harambee Stars are set for a crucial AFCON qualifier against Cameroon after holding their final training session in Uganda.

Harambee Stars held their final training session at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Sunday afternoon, fine-tuning preparations ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Cameroon.

Stars, led by head coach Engin Firat and his assistants, went through a series of tactical drills, with the match being viewed as a must-win to keep their qualification hopes alive.

The eagerly awaited encounter is set to take place on Monday and will be Kenya’s second consecutive match against the Indomitable Lions.

Harambee Stars are looking to bounce back after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Cameroon last Friday at the Stade Omnisports in Yaoundé, a loss that saw Kenya drop to third place in Group J.

Cameroon, currently leading the group with seven points from three matches, have been the dominant force in the campaign.

Kenya, with four points, trails the second-placed Zimbabwe, who moved up the standings after narrowly defeating Namibia 1-0 on Friday.

Zimbabwe now have five points after securing two draws and one win, placing immense pressure on the Harambee Stars to secure a victory on Monday to stay in contention for the AFCON tournament.

Harambee Stars' campaign has had mixed results as they started with a goalless draw against Zimbabwe at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on September 6, before earning a 2-1 victory over Namibia at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg four days later.

However, their loss to Cameroon in the third match of the qualifiers has complicated their path to the tournament.

Adding to the challenge, Harambee Stars have again been forced to play their home matches in Uganda due to the closure of Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium and Kasarani Stadium for renovations.

The team arrived in Kampala on Friday morning using Uganda as their home base for the decisive match against Cameroon.

Firat acknowledged the tough task ahead but expressed confidence in his players’ readiness.

"We know the strength of Cameroon, but we have worked on our weaknesses from the previous match and believe we can make a difference on the pitch," said Firat in an earlier interview.

Historically, Kenya has never beaten Cameroon in international football.

The two sides have faced each other eight times, with Cameroon winning four matches and the other four ending in draws.

Harambee Stars will need to make history if they are to keep their AFCON dream alive.

Cameroon’s squad is packed with top talent, including Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, who has been instrumental in their campaign.

Onana earlier identified Kenya as a potential threat in Group J, underscoring the challenge awaiting Harambee Stars.

Despite the tough odds, Harambee Stars are determined to give their best on the pitch and keep their hopes alive for a coveted spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

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