Harambee Stars came from behind to record a 1-1 draw against Comoros in an Africa Cup Nations qualifier against Comoros at the Moi International Sports Complex on Wednesday.-by Enock Mukoma
The draw complicated their chances of qualifying for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations after recording similar results against the other two opponents
The host lacked sharpness in front of goal wasting dozens of chances.
Youssouf M’changama proved the difference between the two sides at half time after his 36th minute free-kick went past motionless Arnold Origi.
The free kick was against captain Victor Wanyama who brought an opponent few yards from the area.
However, M’changama was booked with a second yellow card for time wasting theatrics, with Centre referee sending him to an early shower. The lad angrily reverted to kicking water bottles at the touchline and the match day ball to the stands.
Coach Jacob Ghost Mulee took the golden opportunity to steer Harambee Stars to attack mode. He made his first Substitution introducing David Owino for Samuel Olwande to cover the porous right flank.
Stars equalized in the 67th minute through Masoud Juma with a well taken bicycle kick.
The home side showed intent to win the match pinning Comoros in their own half but resolute defending from the islanders proved difficult for stars to notch the winner leaving them with an uphill task of seeking their first win of the qualifier
Coach Ghost Mulee will now require to win at least two matches, with playing Comoros away on sun then head to Togo before hosting Egypt at home in the subsequent matches.
In the absence of Kenyan prolific striker Michael Olunga, Ghost will be forced to re-think his attacking options, as fans watching from home nagged about Kenya’s weak attack.
Watching from the VVIP section, was Deputy President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who accompanied a handful of Kenyans to cheer at the flood lit match.
