Kenya’s hope of qualification hinges on Zanzibar-Libya match

Team Harambee Stars during CECAFA Challenge Cup match against Zanzibar at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos County. Dec 8, 2017. [Jonah Onyango, Standard

Having won the first match against Rwanda, before settling for draws in next matches against Libya and Zanzibar, Harambee Stars are now staring at more than hard work to turn things around and proceed to the semifinals of Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup 2017.

Stars will take on Tanzania at Machakos Stadium, who are headed for humiliating pre-mature early exit of the tourney, after collecting just a solitary point from the three games played.

Paul Put’s men have 5 points, 2 points behind group leaders Zanzibar. With Libya sitting fourth with 3 points and a crucial fixture against Zanzibar to play; Kenya may be bundled out of the tournament if they stage another lazy performance.

For Kenya to qualify, Libya must not win their match against Zanzibar. And, in the event that Libya wins, Kenya must fight for atleast a draw and stay ahead of Libya on goal difference. The situation also leaves Kenya’s fate at the hands of Zanzibar who have so far qualified. Rwanda and Tanzania are facing inevitable departure from the tournament regardless of the outcomes of the matches.

Elsewhere, Burundi needs just a point to qualify for the next stage after hammering Ethiopia 4-1 and settling for a draw against Uganda.