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The Nairobian

Stars face Zanzibar in decider: Kenyans face real test in top of the table showdown

Football

By Rodgers Eshitemi | Dec 09, 2017

CECAFA SENIOR CHALLENGE CUP 2017- MACHAKOS Kenya Coach Paul Put during CECAFA senior challenge cup 2017 against Libya at Kenyatta Stadium,Machakos on Tuesday 05/11/17[Boniface Okendo,Standard]

Heroes are in pole position to qualify for semis after winning first two opening matches.

With little more than pride to play for and revenge in the ‘minds’ of Kenya players, Harambee Stars face a real test of character today.

They lock horns with a resilient Zanzibar Heroes at 4pm in a decisive Group A match at the ongoing Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.

Zanzibar, who have been the surprise team of the tournament so far, are in a pole position of securing a semi-final berth after winning the first two opening matches (3-1 against Rwanda and beating Tanzania 2-1).

They are sitting pretty at the top of a tricky Group A with six points, two points more than hosts Kenya whom they beat 3-1 at the last tournament in Ethiopia.

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With both teams remaining with two fixtures going into today’s eagerly awaited encounter, a win for either side will earn them a semis berth.

Coming off a barren draw against Libya, Kenya coach Paul Put is fully aware of the task ahead of him.

And having watched Zanzibar play, the Belgian is braced for a difficult game.

“I saw a little of Zanzibar game against Rwanda, it is a motivated team with good players, quick on counter attacks and long balls.

“It is going to be a difficult team to play against because if you play at home you want to dominate the game.

“But I think now we have to concentrate, work hard and recover before the next game,” said Put.

But his opposite number Hemed Suleiman played down their blistering form, challenging his players to remain focused as they prepare to play in front of hostile fans.

“It is not yet celebration time, this is one of the most difficult groups and any team can go through. We have put the Tanzania victory behind us, our focus now is on Kenya. But this time round we started off quite well and we are determined and ready to perform better,” said Suleiman.

The outspoken coach believes that the crunch match will be won on tactics.

“It will be a very tough match not only for us, but for Kenya. Having beaten them in Addis Ababa in the last tournament, Kenya will come with the aim for revenge. Another thing is that they are at home and are enjoying huge support, so I expect it to be a difficult one,” he said.

“I have watched Kenya, it is a strong team that plays like a team. So, it is a bit difficult to point out their star-players.

“Most of those players are new, they have energy and determination.

“But as you are aware, this match is like a final for both us and whoever gets his tactics right will carry the day.”