Harambee Stars Out of AFCON 2025 Following Draw Against Zimbabwe
The result leaves Kenya without a path to progress from the highly competitive Group J, which also features Cameroon and Namibia.
Harambee Stars was eliminated by Zimbabwe from AFCON 2025 qualifier campaign. Photo/Pulse Sports.
By Rahab Gati
Kenya’s Harambee Stars have been eliminated from contention for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa.
The result leaves Kenya without a path to progress from the highly competitive Group J, which also features Cameroon and Namibia.
The match exposed Kenya’s ongoing struggles in attack, further hampered by the absence of key forward Michael Olunga, sidelined with an injury.
Head coach Engin Firat fielded Eric Johana and Duke Abuya upfront, but the duo failed to deliver the cutting edge needed to secure victory. Despite their efforts, the team created few clear chances.
Zimbabwe controlled much of the game and repeatedly threatened Kenya’s defense. Goalkeeper Bryne Odhiambo put in a solid performance, making critical saves to keep the game level.
However, Kenya’s inability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain pressure in the final third proved costly.
With one match remaining against Namibia, the fixture is now a mere formality for the Harambee Stars, as their qualification hopes are mathematically extinguished.
Attention is already shifting to the future, with coach Firat likely to face scrutiny over his tactical approach and team selection.
The elimination marks another disappointment for Kenyan football, raising questions about the team’s preparedness and ability to compete at the highest level.
Firat and his technical team will need to address these shortcomings as they rebuild for upcoming campaigns.
For Kenya’s fans, the result is a sobering reminder of the challenges facing the national team as they strive to reclaim a competitive edge on the continental stage.
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