Stars eye Burundi in today’s semi as key player remains a doubt

Harambee Star's Head Coach Paul Put during CECAFA Challenge Cup match between Harambee Stars and Tanzania at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos County. Dec 8, 2017. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

When Paul Put addressed the Press for the first time since taking over as Harambee Stars’ coach, he said his wish was to use the Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup as a buildup tournament. But over a week into the regional competition, the 61-year-old Belgian seems to have turned around Kenya’s fortunes, hence revewing his objectives as Stars are now being considered as favourites to reclaim the title they last won in 2013.

 The former Burkina Faso coach has every reason to be proud of his record so far; top of Group A and is unbeaten after four rounds of matches. However, his side’s character comes to real test today (3pm) when they battle the unpredictable Swallows of Burundi in Kisumu. The Burundians are standing on the way of Kenya’s first Cecafa final since 2013.

The winner of the first semifinal between the two reacquainted teams, now on their 11th meeting, will clash with either champions Uganda or Zanzibar in Sunday’s final at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos. Despite the hurdle awaiting the hosts, Put says there is enough confidence in Stars’ dressing room after Monday’s crucial 1-0 victory over Tanzania.

 “The belief is there and everyone is pulling together. We have worked very hard to reach the semifinals and we are going to work extra hard to get good results on Thursday,” said Put. “It is a tricky game, we need to be careful and use a lot of brain, but the good thing is that we have not conceded in all our last four games.”

He reiterated on the importance of the tournament, but said changing his line-up is necessary for the growth of the team.

Tough match “As a coach, it is important to know the players and that’s why I keep on making the changes. I think it is not the changes that make the difference, but our progress as a team,” said Put. “The most important thing for me is to build a team for the future and I hope we will play a very good game in the semis.”

Having played against Burundi captain Fiston Abdul Razak before, Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia skipper Musa Mohammed is aware of the threat posed by the former Sofapaka dangerman and his teammates. “Of course it will be tough against Burundi.

We know what Fiston and his teammates are capable of, but we are well prepared and ready to handle them. We are just one step from the trophy, so there is no room for complacency. We must capitalize on our home advantage.” Vincent Oburu faces a late fitness test and his Kariobangi Sharks counterpart Masoud Juma is still doubtful.