Kenya seeks redemption in crucial AFCON qualifier against Cameroon
Kenya is determined to revive their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification hopes as they prepare to face Cameroon in a decisive Group J clash at the Mandela National Stadium on Monday, October 14. The match, scheduled to kick off at 3:00 PM CAT (SA, GMT+2), could define Kenya’s path in the tournament after a heavy loss in their previous encounter.
The Harambee Stars are coming off a disappointing 4-1 defeat to the Indomitable Lions in Douala on October 11, a result that has left them in a precarious position at the halfway point of the AFCON qualifying campaign.
The defeat pushed Engin Firat’s side down to third place in the group standings, trailing Zimbabwe by a single point.
Kenya has managed one win, one draw, and one loss from their first three matches, making Monday’s fixture a must-win.
Despite the setback, Kenya had shown promising form earlier in the campaign.
They opened their account with a hard-fought goalless draw against Zimbabwe in Kampala on September 6, followed by a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Namibia in Johannesburg four days later.
However, their heavy defeat to Cameroon has exposed vulnerabilities that must be addressed if they are to stay in contention for AFCON 2025.
Cameroon, currently leading Group J with seven points, have been in solid form throughout the qualifiers.
Under head coach Marc Brys, the Indomitable Lions have opened up a two-point gap over Zimbabwe, having secured their second win of the campaign against Kenya last week.
Their attacking prowess was on full display in Douala, where they scored four goals in just 55 minutes, a significant improvement from their earlier outings.
Prior to the win over Kenya, Cameroon had struggled in front of goal, managing just one strike in their opening two matches.
They began the campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Namibia in Garoua on September 7, followed by a 0-0 draw with Zimbabwe in Kampala.
However, their dominant performance against the Harambee Stars has reinforced their position as group favorites to advance to AFCON 2025.
Kenya will need to dig deep and find solutions if they are to bounce back from their recent setback.
Head coach Engin Firat is expected to make tactical adjustments, especially in defense, to avoid another high-scoring defeat.
Meanwhile, Cameroon will be keen to continue their fine form and all but secure their place in the tournament with a victory in Kampala.
As the AFCON qualifiers enter a critical phase, both teams know that the outcome of Monday’s match could have a lasting impact on their respective campaigns.
For Kenya, a win is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive, while Cameroon will look to extend their lead at the top of Group J and move one step closer to securing their place in the prestigious tournament.