Kenya made its AFCON debut for the first time in 15 years, and the Harambee Stars were keen to make an impression in Egypt the land of the colossal Pyramids and Great Sphinx in their competition opener.
Kenya’s first eleven included captain Victor Wanyama, goalie Patrick Matasi, midfielders Philemon Otieno, Eric Omondi and attacking midfielder Francis Kahata against the Desert Foxes Algeria. The game which got onto a flying start proved difficult for Kenya’s stars as they struggled to keep up with Algeria’s quick movements across the pitch. Using a 4-1-4-1 formation the North African team moved quick and fast and were able to capitalize on Kenya’s disorganized game plan to net two goals. Algeria’s forwards kept a tight formation as the midfielders did well to free up space, for a great game that would end in their favor.
The Group C matchup exposed Kenya’s biggest weaknesses as the Sebastien Migne’s team seemed to have thrown out all strategy and instead spent their 90 minutes scrambling across the pitch. The Stars only made 4 shots to Algeria’s 12, while the Foxes made away with 57% possession of the ball to Kenya’s 43%. Their frustration began to show as they continually fouled the Algerian team abandoning strategy and tactics for a more physical game. Nonetheless, their attempts to settle the scores only offered the Desert Foxes opportunities to score. Baghdad Bounedjah scored in the 34th minute and Riyad Karim Mahrez promptly found the back of the net in the 46th minute for the Algerian side.
Despite Kenya’s sub-par performance in the continental tournament opener, there are a few lessons that they can take from their first match:
1. Play smart
A strategy is only helpful when executed precisely. The 4-2-3-1 formation by Coach Migne could have worked to handle Algeria’s surefooted forwards, however, the formation and the strategy was quickly thrown out as the team began to panic. Frustration led the Kenyan side to 26 fouls, two times that of the Algerian side. Not making use of their 4 corners we obtained only served to make the task of winning that much harder. Abud Omar and Philemon Otieno both ended the match with yellow cards, putting Kenya’s national team at a disadvantage.
2. One man does not make a team
Sure Victor Wanyama is team captain, and rightly so. However, his prowess and skill can only carry the Harambee Stars so far. He should not be the hero of the team that the coach, teammates, and fans look to, to save the day. Always remember that no player is all-mighty or all-powerful. He may have great dexterity and finesse but he is only one man out of eleven. The other ten must also play their part.
3. Stay focused
Stamina, focus, and resilience goes a long way. Kenya has finally made it to the continental tournament, a first in more than a decade (although only due to the disqualification of another team), be sure that Kenyan fans will continue to support the national team. The Stars should remain focused and discount the disappointment and politics, keeping their heads in the game to ensure they shine bright like the stars they truly are.
Kenya is set to face neighbors Tanzania in the next Group C face-off scheduled for 27th June 2019.
