Harambee Stars coach Jacob Mulee will be seeking to kick off the 2022 World Cup qualifiers on a high note as they host Uganda Cranes this afternoon at the Nyayo Stadium.
However, the much awaited fixture will be staged behind closed doors in accordance and adherence to the existing COVID-19 protocols.
Fans have had to suffer more than twelve months without the ability to see the national team live and that seem to go on for some time given the tight measures put in place by the Ministry of Health to curb the pandemic.
Harambee Star’s ever present striker Michael Olunga will set in as the Captain of the home team in the absence of CF Montréal defensive midfielder Victor Wanyama as Olunga seeks to lead his side to its first ever World Cup appearance.
Any hopes of Kenya getting on the scoresheet rest on Olunga’s shoulders, who has been Kenya’s main striker in recent years.
Olunga’s pace, physique and his ability to score from any angle could mark him as a nightmare for the Ugandan’s.
Back in 2015 Olunga and Jacob Keli scored a goal each as Stars went on to win 2-0 against Uganda in a CECAFA Championship tie. That was the last time Kenya won against Uganda.
However, heading to this World Cup qualifier, Harambee Stars are slightly in better form compared to Uganda, having won four of their last five matches compared to Uganda’s four.
Bandari FC pacey winger Abdallah Juma, Azam United attacking midfielder Kenneth Muguna, AIK defender Eric Ouma and KAA Gent prospect Joseph Okumu will play a major role in ensuring Olunga scores for the home team.
A win for the Jacob Mulee coached side will be a positive step towards qualifying for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Kenya is in Group E against Mali, Rwanda and Uganda
