Our AFCON Journey is Far from Over: Why Kenya Still Believes in Qualification

Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) were dealt a significant blow following back-to-back defeats against Cameroon. A narrow 1-0 loss at home to the Indomitable Lions, compounded by a heavy 4-1 defeat earlier, left Harambee Stars in a difficult position within the qualification group. Despite these setbacks, the team has vowed to fight on, with Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen urging both the players and fans not to lose hope.

With the current standings placing Cameroon at the top of the group and already qualified for next year’s tournament in Morocco, Kenya finds itself with limited options. Zimbabwe’s 3-1 win over Namibia on the same day further complicated the situation, placing them second in the group with eight points, while Kenya has accumulated only four. To qualify, Harambee Stars must win their remaining two fixtures and hope other results work in their favor. Despite these challenges, Murkomen emphasized that the dream of qualification is still alive and urged the team to press on.

A Rough Patch, but Hope Remains

The home defeat to Cameroon was a bitter pill for Kenya, especially since it followed a previous heavy loss to the same opponents. The two consecutive defeats not only highlighted Kenya’s weaknesses in finishing but also showed the level of competition at this stage of AFCON qualification. However, Murkomen noted that the performance had its positives, and he encouraged the team to focus on the upcoming games in November.

“With 1 win, 1 draw, and 2 losses, we still have a lot to fight for,” he remarked, reminding the players that their AFCON campaign is far from over. His optimism reflects a belief that with better preparation and resilience, the team can turn things around.

Engin Firat, the Harambee Stars’ head coach, will have to rally his players for the crucial encounters ahead. In November, Kenya is scheduled to face Zimbabwe away, followed by a home game against Namibia. These two matches will be decisive, as winning both will place Kenya on 10 points and keep their qualification hopes alive. However, they will need to rely on Cameroon to prevent Zimbabwe from winning their final group-stage game.

Learning from Missed Opportunities

Kenya’s recent struggles against Cameroon exposed key tactical flaws, particularly in converting chances. The 1-0 loss at home was marked by several missed opportunities, frustrating fans and analysts alike. The inability to finish key chances proved costly, as Cameroon punished every mistake. Similarly, the heavy 4-1 defeat in the away leg underscored the gulf in class and the importance of clinical execution at this level.

Fans expressed their frustrations on social media, criticizing the players for missed chances and inconsistent performances. However, the mood within the team remains optimistic, with Murkomen reminding the public that football is unpredictable and setbacks are part of the journey. “There are many positives we can take from the match,” he said, urging supporters to continue rallying behind the team.

Firat’s focus now will likely shift to fine-tuning the squad’s attacking play and shoring up defensive vulnerabilities. Kenya has shown glimpses of potential, but the team must improve its composure and consistency if they are to stand any chance in the upcoming fixtures.

What Harambee Stars Must Do to Qualify

With only four points in the group so far, Kenya faces an uphill battle to qualify for AFCON 2025. Winning both of their remaining matches is non-negotiable if they are to keep their hopes alive. However, even with maximum points from these games, their fate will also depend on results elsewhere.

To reach the tournament in Morocco, Kenya needs:

1. Victory Against Zimbabwe (Away)
   The away match against Zimbabwe in November is crucial. Zimbabwe currently sits second in the group, and a win against them would be a major boost for Kenya, narrowing the gap and keeping the qualification dream alive.
2. Victory Against Namibia (Home)
   Kenya must also defeat Namibia in their final qualification game at home. Namibia, though trailing behind, has proven to be a tricky opponent, and Kenya will need to be at their best to secure the three points.
3. Cameroon to Stop Zimbabwe
   Even with two wins, Kenya will need Zimbabwe to drop points in their last game. If Cameroon, already qualified, prevents Zimbabwe from winning, Kenya will have a better chance of clinching a spot in the tournament.

This combination of events may seem challenging, but in football, surprises often occur, and the team remains hopeful.

The Importance of Belief and Momentum

Murkomen’s unwavering support for the team comes at a crucial time. In moments like these, morale within the squad can easily dip, especially after disappointing results. However, the message from the Sports Cabinet Secretary is clear: the team must not lose belief. “There’s still much to fight for,” he emphasized, encouraging the players to stay motivated and approach the next matches with determination.

Momentum will also be key. If Harambee Stars can secure a win against Zimbabwe, it could spark a positive run that carries into their final match. Additionally, the return of key players and tactical adjustments from Firat might provide the boost they need.

A Chance to Rewrite History

Kenya has not qualified for AFCON since the 2019 tournament, and missing out again would be a significant setback for the nation’s football ambitions. However, qualification remains within reach, and the journey so far has provided valuable lessons for both the players and coaching staff. The team knows what is at stake, and with strong performances in November, they could still turn things around.

Murkomen’s rallying cry reflects the spirit of a nation that refuses to give up. While the task ahead is daunting, the players have a unique opportunity to rewrite their narrative and bring joy to Kenyan football fans.

Conclusion

Harambee Stars’ journey to AFCON 2025 qualification may be complicated, but it is far from over. The upcoming matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia will be crucial, and with the right mentality, Kenya can still achieve the unthinkable. Murkomen’s message to the team and fans serves as a reminder that challenges are part of the game, and victory often comes to those who persevere.

As the team prepares for their decisive November fixtures, they carry with them the hopes of a nation. Whether they qualify or not, the important thing is to fight until the end, showing resilience and character on the pitch. With belief, focus, and a bit of luck, Harambee Stars might just find themselves in Morocco next year. The dream is still alive.