Kimanzi remains hopeful despite Harambee Stars draw against Burkinabe

Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi. [FKF Media]

Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi remains optimistic about his team's prospects despite a 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso in their 2025 Mapinduzi Cup opener at Gombeni Stadium, Zanzibar on Saturday.

Acknowledging the inherent challenges of a first match in any tournament, Kimanzi emphasised the need for improved team chemistry while praising his players for their effort.

"The first game is always difficult because the players are not fully settled, but I believe they handled it well until the very end. There's definitely something we can build on, and we leave with a sense of satisfaction," Kimanzi stated post-match.

Harambee Stars came into the tournament under significant pressure, having gone winless in their last seven matches-a poor run that led to the resignation of Turkish coach Engin Firat.

Kimanzi, stepping in as interim coach, is tasked with rejuvenating the squad's morale and performance.

Kenya began the match brightly, showing attacking intent against Botswana's compact defense. The breakthrough came just before halftime, courtesy of a perfectly executed free kick by Boniface Muchiri.

His delivery found James Kinyanjui, who confidently slotted the ball into the net in added time, giving Kenya a 1-0 lead heading into the break.

The second half saw Kimanzi make tactical adjustments to bolster the team's energy. A triple substitution in the 67th minute introduced Darius Msagah, Chrispine Erambo, and Bajaber Mohammed, replacing Michael Mutinda, Kinyanjui, and Kelly Madada who had came on for Kenneth Muguna in the first half.

The changes added dynamism to Kenya's midfield and attack.

However, Botswana's persistence paid off in the dying minutes. Aboubacar Traore exploited a defensive lapse to score the equaliser in the 89th minute, leaving the Kenyan bench frustrated.

"They gave their all, but it wasn't enough to secure the win," Kimanzi remarked.

"The first game often comes with nerves, and we didn't have the intensity we needed throughout. That's why we made changes-to protect our lead and push for a second goal."

The draw means Kenya's quest for a first win in eight matches continues, adding pressure to their next fixture against Kilimanjaro Stars tomorrow. Kimanzi remains upbeat about their chances.

"We'll prepare well for the next game because we need to play at our best and aim for a win," he said.

Harambee Stars will then face Zanzibar Heroes in their final group match on Friday evening. Both games are must-win encounters if Kenya is to progress to the next round in the competition and restore confidence among their fans.

Kenya's current struggles underline the need for stability and long-term planning, but Kimanzi's leadership offers a glimmer of hope.

With improved focus and execution, Harambee Stars can turn their fortunes around in the remaining matches.

For now, all eyes are on tomorrow's clash against Tanzania, where the Stars must shine brightly to keep their Mapinduzi Cup campaign alive.