Kenya vs. Russia: Exciting Friendly Match Highlights
1. Match Introduction:
- Harambee Stars faced off against Russia in a friendly match held in Turkey on October 16.
- Despite Russia’s high FIFA ranking (39th), Kenya aimed to showcase their football prowess.
2. Early Goal by Russia:
- The game began with Russia taking the lead in the 8th minute.
- Alexander Sobolev, a forward from Spartak Moscow, found the back of Kenya’s net with a well-placed shot.
3. Quick Response by Kenya:
- Kenya responded swiftly, with Antony Akumu leveling the score in the 16th minute.
- Akumu capitalized on a turnover in possession and assisted by Michael Olunga.
4. First-Half Substitutions:
- In the first half, both teams had to make substitutions due to injuries.
- Kenya’s goalkeeper, Bryne Odhiambo, picked up an injury, necessitating an early substitution.
- Russia’s Daniil Formin was forced off in the 28th minute following a tackle by Richard Odada.
5. Kenya Takes the Lead:
- Harambee Stars dominated proceedings, displaying composure with intricate passes.
- Masoud Juma capitalized on lax defending to score and put Kenya ahead in the 36th minute.
6. Late Equalizer:
- Kenya was close to a historic win, but Russia managed to score an equalizer in the 89th minute.
- The match ended in a 2-2 draw.
7. Key Coach’s Decisions:
- Harambee Stars’ head coach, Engin Firat, chose a starting lineup featuring familiar players.
- A notable inclusion was Rooney Onyango, who made his international debut and played as a winger, while Amos Nondi took up the right-back position.
8. Significance for World Cup Qualifiers:
- This game served as Harambee Stars’ final preparation before the 2026 World Cup qualifiers starting next month.
In summary, the match was a thrilling encounter with Russia taking an early lead, Kenya responding swiftly, and eventually taking the lead. However, Russia managed to equalize, and the game ended in a 2-2 draw. Harambee Stars used this friendly as crucial preparation for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers
kenya lineup
