Limping Kenya face Russia test in today's 7pm EAT match

Harambee Stars' Masud Juma is aided by medics after he got injured in a friendly match against South Sudan, on September 12. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Harambee Stars will be seeking to prove to their fans that they have put their house in order ahead of their international friendly match against Russia today in Antalya, Turkey.

Kenya must show that they are ready for next month’s 2026 Fifa World Cup Qualifiers where they are set to face Gabon on November 13.

Drawn in Group F against Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi, and Seychelles, Harambee Stars have not been convincing at all since the Fifa ban was lifted last year.

In their five matches played this year, Kenya have won two (against Qatar and Pakistan) and lost three.

In fact, Stars have not registered back-to-back wins. Kenya began their life after the Fifa ban with a 2-1 defeat to Iran in March 28 before defeating Pakistan 1-0 on June 14. Four days later, Kenya lost 1-0 to Mauritius.

Last month, Stars wrote history by beating 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar 2-1 in Doha before falling to South Sudan 1-0 at Kasarani Stadium.

However, Stars head coach Engin Firat feels the high-profile friendly matches they have organised are vital for the players.

“We played well against Iran. Against Qatar, we got the result we wanted against the Asian champions. These friendlies are not just about results but opening up opportunities for Kenyan football,” Firat told FKF Media.

“I am hopeful that these matches will not only expose our players to better opportunities, but also market Kenyan football, and in the long run, generate income for our clubs through transfer fees.”

“Everyone has their expectations for our squad selection. My job is to build a formidable team for the upcoming assignments. Nonetheless, the door is open for anyone to come in or out. I am confident the squad I have is capable of the task ahead,” said coach Firat.

Stars midfielder Anthony Akumu called upon all Kenyans to rally behind the national team in their assignment.

“Our plea to the fans is for them to continue supporting us. They are Kenyans and this is their team. For us as players, we will keep doing our best. Results are a work of planning and we will do what we can against Russia.”

Players in Turkey include goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, Brian Bwire, Bryne Odhiambo, Daniel Sakari, Vincent Harper, Amos Nondi, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Alpha Onyango, Ovella Ochieng, Alfred Scriven, Cliffton Miheso, and Moses Shummah.

French-based defender Joseph Okumu, Brian Mandela, Collins Sichenje, Erick Ouma, Rooney Onyango, Masoud Juma, and Michael Olunga linked up with the team alongside Estrela da Amadora defender Johnstone Omurwa and China-based winger Ayub Timbe.

Daniel Anyembe will miss out after failure to be released by his club while only Timbe is doubtful after picking a swollen ankle in camp.