Harambee Stars hunt another win against South Sudan from 4pm
Football
By
Washington Onyango
| Sep 12, 2023
Harambee Stars are riding a wave of optimism and confidence as they prepare for their upcoming international friendly match against South Sudan.
The team's 2-1 victory over Qatar last week served as a statement of intent, and they are eager to build on that success as they welcome Bright Stars to the Kasarani Stadium on Tuesday at 4 pm.
The win over Qatar was a morale booster for the Kenyan side, and it has ignited hopes of a brighter future under the guidance of head coach Engin Firat.
In the thrilling victory over Qatar, it was Joseph Okumu and Amos Nondi who found the back of the net for Harambee Stars. Their goals not only secured the win but also showcased the team's attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Okumu's towering presence in defense and Nondi's clinical finishing were pivotal to Kenya's success.
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Speaking ahead of the match against South Sudan, head coach Engin Firat expressed his confidence in the team's ability to maintain their winning momentum.
"Our win over Qatar was a significant achievement for us. It showed that we have the quality and determination to compete at a high level. However, we cannot rest on our laurels. South Sudan is another tough opponent, and we must be prepared to face them with the same level of intensity and commitment," Firat stated.
Firat emphasized the importance of consistency and the need to continue building a strong team identity.
"We are still in the process of developing our team and defining our style of play. The win over Qatar was a step in the right direction, but it's just the beginning. We want to establish a consistent pattern of success and become a force to be reckoned with in international football," he added.
The head coach also highlighted the significance of maintaining a balanced squad, combining experienced players with emerging talents.
"In our journey to success, we must strike a balance between the seasoned players who bring leadership and composure to the team and the young talents who inject energy and creativity. It's about nurturing our future stars while respecting the contributions of our experienced campaigners," Firat explained.
Firat acknowledged that South Sudan would pose a different set of challenges compared to Qatar but expressed his belief in the team's adaptability and resilience.
"Every match is a unique test, and South Sudan will have their strengths and weaknesses. Our job as a team is to study our opponents, identify their vulnerabilities, and exploit them while being mindful of our own game plan. We have the talent and determination to overcome any obstacles that come our way," he emphasized.
In conclusion, Harambee Stars are poised to take on South Sudan with a newfound sense of confidence and determination.
Engin Firat's vision for the team is clear: to build on the recent success against Qatar, establish consistency, and continue developing a squad capable of competing at the highest level of international football.