Kenya’s Harambee Stars face a critical 2025 AFCON qualifier against Zimbabwe on Friday, where victory is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive. The team, currently third in Group J with four points, trails Zimbabwe by four points, while Cameroon tops the group with ten points and has already qualified for the tournament in South Africa. Head coach Engin Firat will be hoping for a well-balanced and effective lineup to help the Stars secure the much-needed win, especially with a 7:00 PM kickoff time at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa.
In goal, Byrne Omondi is expected to start, given his impressive performances and established role as Kenya’s first-choice goalkeeper. Omondi, who plays for Bandari, brings composure, impressive distribution, and commanding presence, which has set him apart from the other goalkeeping options. With Patrick Matasi dropped after a series of errors, Omondi’s experience and stability will be crucial against a formidable Zimbabwean side.
At right-back, Daniel Anyembe is likely to start in place of Alphonce Omija, who is unavailable. Although Daniel Sakari has returned to the squad, Firat may favor Anyembe’s experience and defensive acumen. Anyembe’s flexibility in positioning allows him to drop back into a three-man defense during build-up play, freeing up Eric Ouma to advance down the left side.
In central defense, Joseph Okumu will be a key figure now that he’s back to full fitness. Okumu has been reliable for Kenya, and his ability to read the game and make precise tackles will be vital in keeping Zimbabwe’s attackers at bay. Partnering him at left center-back will likely be Johnstone Omurwa, who is known for his composure on the ball and strong passing range, aiding Kenya’s buildup from deep in their own half.
At left-back, Erick Ouma, or “Marcelo” as he’s popularly known, is a sure pick. The Poland-based defender has been an essential part of the squad, with his speed, crossing ability, and positional awareness helping to support both defensive and attacking transitions. Ouma’s overlapping runs and link-up play will be crucial for Kenya’s chances to break Zimbabwe’s defensive lines.
In midfield, Richard Odada is expected to start alongside Teddy Akumu. Odada, who has recently found more minutes with Dundee United in Scotland, brings energy, vision, and physicality to Kenya’s midfield. Akumu, his partner, is a reliable presence and has been a mainstay in the lineup, providing defensive stability and ball distribution that Firat’s system relies on.
On the wings, Ronney Onyango is set to start on the right. His pace and accurate crossing ability make him a valuable asset for Kenya’s offensive setup, as he can stretch Zimbabwe’s defense and provide service to the forwards. On the left wing, John Avire is the likely pick, filling in for the absent Masoud Juma and Ayub Timber. Avire’s physicality and aggressive playstyle allow Kenya to maintain pressure in the opposition half. His impressive goal against Namibia in the earlier stages of the qualifiers showed his capacity to make a difference in high-stakes matches.
In the attacking midfield role, Duke Abuya is expected to start, as his off-the-ball movement makes him a versatile threat on counter-attacks. His ability to find pockets of space can create opportunities to exploit Zimbabwe’s defensive weaknesses, a critical element in Kenya’s plan to get a result.
Leading the attack as center-forward is captain Michael Olunga. The prolific striker has been in tremendous form for his club, Al Duhail, and Kenyan fans are hopeful he can replicate that scoring touch against Zimbabwe. Olunga’s experience, leadership, and striking prowess will be indispensable in a must-win situation.
Overall, Firat’s predicted lineup combines experience, youth, and tactical flexibility, attributes the Harambee Stars will need to maximize if they are to secure a win against Zimbabwe and keep their AFCON hopes alive.
