Kenya’s Harambee Stars have been eliminated from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification race following a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in South Africa on Friday. The result ensured Zimbabwe joined Cameroon as the two teams advancing from the group, leaving Kenya’s dream of reaching Morocco in tatters.
The Warriors gained the upper hand in the 32nd minute when Khama Billiat delivered a precise cross into the box.
Tawanda Maswanhise capitalized on the delivery, slotting the ball past Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi to put Zimbabwe ahead.
Kenya struggled to respond effectively during the first half, with frustrations boiling over on the pitch.
Defender Joseph Omurwa was shown a yellow card for dissent, while Aboud Omar received a booking shortly after for a reckless tackle.
Zimbabwe’s Munashe Garananga also found himself in the referee’s book in the 35th minute after impeding Kenya’s captain Michael Olunga.
Despite these incidents, the first half ended with the Warriors firmly in control, leading 1-0.
The Harambee Stars returned to the field with renewed vigor after halftime, spurred by tactical changes from coach Engin Firat.
Defender Charles Momanyi and midfielder Duke Abuya replaced Joseph Okumu and Aboud Omar, adding fresh energy to the side.
The adjustments paid off in the 52nd minute when John Ayunga, playing for Scottish club St. Mirren, fired in a powerful shot to equalize for Kenya.
Ayunga’s strike, his first international goal, raised hopes for a comeback as the Stars pushed forward in search of a winner.
However, Zimbabwe’s defense held firm, and their goalkeeper Washington Arubi made crucial saves to keep the scores level.
The draw lifted Zimbabwe to nine points, securing their place in the AFCON finals alongside Cameroon.
Kenya remains third in the group with five points, four behind the Warriors, with only one match left to play.
As the group stage concludes on Tuesday, Kenya will face Namibia in a now-irrelevant fixture, while Zimbabwe will take on Cameroon in a clash for top spot.
For Kenya, the draw marked a disappointing end to their qualification campaign, as Zimbabwe celebrated a well-earned ticket to Morocco.
