Kenya’s Skipper Olunga Wants Gov’t To ‘Bring Back Our Home Advantage’
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has asked the government to ensure that Nyayo Stadium and Moi Stadium, Kasarani, are ready for the next round of 2026 World Cup qualifiers later this year.
Due to a lack of a certified stadium in Nairobi, the Stars played two home matches earlier this month in Lilongwe, Malawi, against Burundi (1-1) and Cote d’Ivoire (0-0).
“Playing away from home deprived fans the right to watch their beloved team while we also missed their support and motivation,” said Olunga.
He said two points were a disappointment because they had expected four from the two games.
“Things didn’t work to our expectations. However, we have to look at the positive side of things. We have to fight hard in the remaining six games to ensure we finish at least second to grab a playoff spot,” added Olunga.
After drawing with Burundi due to a last-minute lapse in concentration, Olunga stated that they must be disciplined and tactical against the Ivorians.
“As the team captain and the face of the national team, I have to lead from the front and take responsibility when things go south. When I score goals, I get some flowers and when I miss chances, I get bashed. But we shouldn’t dwell too much on negatives,” added the Al-Duhail striker.
Olunga already has two goals from four games in the qualifiers.
Like the Ivorians, Olunga stated that the Bingu Stadium pitch was lacking and made it difficult to control the ball.
The Stars’ coach, Engin Firat, used a 4-5-1 system to block the Ivorian attacks and try to catch them on the counter.
He praised their teamwork, with each player running more than 10 kilometers.
Kenya is fourth in Group ‘F’ with five points, trailing leaders Cote d’Ivoire (10), Gabon (9) and Burundi (7).
The Gambia is fifth with three points, while Seychelles leads the table with none.
Meanwhile, the draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco qualifiers is scheduled for July 4 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Kenya’s Skipper Olunga Wants Gov’t To ‘Bring Back Our Home Advantage’
