Kenya’s Harambee Stars stumbled in their quest for a place in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a disappointing 2-0 loss to South Sudan in the first leg of the first-round qualifiers, played at the Juba National Stadium on Sunday.
The result raises concerns over Kenya’s preparation for the competition, as they fielded a team that had only managed two training sessions before the clash.
Despite assurances that their ticket to the main tournament would be secure, head coach Engin Firat’s squad was visibly outmatched by the Bright Stars, who capitalized on their momentum and home advantage.
South Sudan broke through in the second half with two quick goals from Ezibon Malish and Yohanna Paulino, sealing the victory and putting Kenya’s hopes in jeopardy.
The loss not only leaves Harambee Stars with a significant challenge for the second leg but also marks their second defeat to South Sudan within a year.
Ranked 66 places below Kenya, South Sudan has consistently proven a formidable opponent, underscoring the need for Kenya to improve its tactical and preparatory approach.
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Harambee Stars now face a high-stakes second-leg match set for Sunday, November 3, at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda.
Kickoff is at 4:00 p.m. EAT, where Kenya must overturn the deficit on aggregate to secure advancement to the second round, where they would face either Rwanda or Djibouti.