Harambee Star made up for their 2-0 loss against Algeria at the ongoing Africa Cup Of Nations with an emphatic 3-2 victory over Tanzania on Thursday. Kenya came from behind twice to earn only the second victory from six appearances in the tournament. The only other win came 15 years ago when Jacob Mulei’s team beat Burkina Faso in the last group match.
Below we look at how each player faired in the match against Tanzania.
Patrick Matasi-Goalkeeper
Conceded twice yet again and was clearly at fought for the first goal. He should have punched the initial shot sideways but instead played it right into the path of the Tanzania attacker who slotted home. Needs to do better with his kicking and positioning during set pieces too. Not the best night from the usually reliable Matasi. 5/10.
David Owino-Right Back
Called into the fold following Philemon Otieno’s injury. Owino is however better suited at playing in the center back position and his struggles were clear from the first minute. The Tanzania wingers were beating him for pace which led to a few hearts in mouth moments for the Harambee Stars. He slightly improved in the second half but overall he had a poor game. 5/10
Aboud Omar-Left Back
Poor again to follow up on his dismal performance against Algeria. Could not keep his winger silent and offered next to nothing going forward. He was rightly subbed off at Half time. 4/10.
Musa Mohamed-Center back
One of the positives from a makeshift backline that has so far struggled in the tournament. The way he dealt with Tanzania’s aerial threat was commendable while his passes from the back were mostly spot on. 6/10.
Joseph Okumu-Center Back
One of the best players on the pitch. His range of passing especially stands out. One long ball to Micheal Olunga drew cheers from the crowd. The 22-year-old is slowly establishing himself as a sure starter for Migne. He read the game well and was the brightest star from an otherwise dysfunctional backline. 8/10
Victor Wanyama-Defensive midfielder
Not the best match from the skipper but he kept things ticking. He seems not 100% match sharp but that can be explained by his injury problems with Tottenham Hotspur last season. A few misplaced passes here and there but he was way better than in the Algeria match. 6/10
Johanna Omollo-Central midfielder
Easily the best midfielder on the pitch for both teams and capped his performance with a goal in the second half. Omollo kept the ball moving and wons lots of tackles in the middle of the park. One of the most important players for Migne at the Tournament. 8/10
Francis Kahata
Bad, really bad that he was substituted in the first half after only 33 minutes of play. 3/10
Ayub Masika Timbe-Right Winger
The Ligi Ndogo academy graduate gave the Tanzania defenders lots to think about. He was contently positive whenever he got the ball but the final ball was lacking. Got the assist for the second goal too. 7/10
Eric Ouma-Left winger
Very good game from Marcello. Made good runs and delivered a few dangerous crosses. Can also play at left back giving Migne more formations to play without actually making a substitution. 8/10
Micheal Olunga-Striker
The Man Of the Match with two brilliantly taken goals. Could have had a hat trick too but was unlucky to see his header in the first half come off the bar. 9/10