Harambee Stars pair doubtful for Namibia clash

Coach Engin Firat has disclosed that both Alphonce Omija and Erick Ouma are nursing injuries and are doubtful for Tuesday’s game against Namibia in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Omija was forced off early in the match against Zimbabwe after sustaining a hit, with Amos Nondi replacing him at right-back.

Ouma, on the other hand, was substituted in the final ten minutes of the game which ended in a goalless draw.

Ouma's removal drew criticism from fans, as he appeared to be Kenya's only attacking threat down the left during a frustrating afternoon for the national team. Firat explained that the substitution was necessitated by an injury.

"I always have a long list of injured players. In our first match, Alphonce Omija got injured, and Eric Ouma could not finish the game because of injury," Firat said in an interview with The Star.

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The availability of both players remains uncertain.

According to Firat, the medical team will advise whether to summon new players if Omija and Ouma are unfit for the match.

"In the end, we will have to trust other players, but let's see what the medical department says about inviting others. It will be bad if we lose more than half of the team," he added.

Following the draw against Zimbabwe, Kenya faces Namibia, who lost their opening game to Cameroon by a single goal. Firat anticipates tough opposition on Tuesday.

"Namibia will play more offensively after losing to Cameroon, making everything easier for us. We intend to sit back and hit them on the counter," Firat said.

The coach's team selection against Zimbabwe has faced sharp criticism, particularly his decision to play without a recognized striker—a move questioned by many, including local coaches. However, he defended his choices.

"Everyone who featured in the match deserved it. One requires a great deal of mental fortitude to deliver at this level of competition," he stated.

Tuesday's game kicks off at 7 p.m. and will be broadcast live on KBC Channel One.

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