Harambee Stars clinched victory in the Four Nations Tournament by defeating Zimbabwe 3-1, adding momentum to their preparations for the upcoming Africa World Championship Qualification matches.
Captain Michael Olunga secured a hattrick, while Zimbabwe managed a lone goal, courtesy of Joseph Okumu’s own goal. The match commenced with Engin Firat’s team initially on the defensive, conceding early due to Okumu’s unfortunate error during a Zimbabwe counterattack.
As the game progressed, Kenya found their rhythm and pressed forward in search of an equalizer. Firat made an early substitution, bringing on Kenneth Muguna for the injured Chrispine Erambo.
Olunga leveled the score just before halftime, assisted by Ayub Timbe. In the second half, Harambee Stars continued to dominate, with occasional interruptions from the referee to quell escalating tensions.
Zimbabwe’s Teenage Hadebe was sent off in the 56th minute, giving Kenya a numerical advantage. Olunga capitalized on this, securing the lead seven minutes later.
However, Kenya faced a setback when Richard Odada was also shown a red card in the 73rd minute. Despite this, Olunga extended the lead in the 87th minute, sealing the victory with his third goal of the match.
This triumph marks Kenya’s first major title since their 2017 victory in the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup, providing a significant boost as they prepare for the World Cup qualifier.
Lineups
Kenya
Starting XI
P. Matasi, Daniel Anyembe, Vincent Mahiga, Joseph Okumu, Johnstone Omurwa, Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Chrispine Erambo, Rooney Onyango, Michael Olunga, Ayub Timbe
Substitutes
Bryne Odhiambo, Ian Otieno, Geoffrey Ochieng’, Alphonce Omija, Jonah Ayunga, Sharrif Musa, Kaycie Odhiambo, John Avire, Collins Sichenje, Amos Nondi, Kenneth Muguna
Zimbabwe
Starting XI
Donavan Bernard, Gerald Takwara, Teenage Hadebe, Munashe Garananga, Junior Makunike, Walter Musona, Andy Rinomhota, Marshall Munetsi, Macauley Bonne, Daniel Msendami, Tino Kadewere
Substitutes:
Brendan Galloway, Tawanda Maswanhise, Joey Phuthi, Martin Mapisa, Marley Tavaziva, Divine Lunga, Peter Muduwa, Tivonge Rushesha, Jordan Zemura, Kevin Moyo, Shane Maroodza, Emmanuel Jalai.
Visit Flashscore.co.ke for Live Football Scores
