Mapinduzi Cup: Kimanzi inspired Harambee Stars eye title

Interim Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi is brimming with confidence that his team is growing into a formidable force following the 2-0 triumph over Kilimanjaro Stars on Tuesday.

The win not only ended Kenya’s seven-match winless streak, but also placed them at the top of the Mapinduzi Cup round-robin pool standings.

Goals from Ulinzi Stars forward Boniface Muchiri and FKF Premier League top scorer Ryan Ogam secured vital three points for Kenya at Gombani Stadium, Zanzibar.

Muchiri broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, capitalising on Kenya’s sustained pressure, before Ogam, the promising youngster, netted his first goal for the senior team in the 67th minute to seal the win.

Kenya now leads the group with four points, level with Burkina Faso but ahead on goal difference. Zanzibar follows closely with three points, while Tanzania, yet to register a point, sits at the bottom of the standings.

Reflecting on the victory, Kimanzi praised his players for their growing resilience and adaptability.

“We are still in the very early stages of testing the players and want to build a team that is very competitive,” he said. “The players are showing good character, and these games in the Mapinduzi Cup are helping us build that further.”

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Kimanzi emphasised the importance of squad rotation to preserve players amid the challenges posed by playing on artificial turf.

“The matches are intense, and it’s crucial to observe the players’ fitness levels to avoid injuries. Rotation is an ideal option to ensure everyone is ready and fresh for upcoming games,” he added.

Kenya’s performance in the Mapinduzi Cup serves as a precursor to their preparations for the African Nations Championship (Chan) 2024, set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in February.

Kimanzi believes the tournament is offering invaluable opportunities to fine-tune the team’s mental and physical character.

“We want to see better mental strength and develop a competitive character as we progress,” said Kimanzi. “If we can achieve that, we will be rewarded.”

Harambee Stars will next face hosts Zanzibar on Friday, in what promises to be a decisive clash. The match, set to kick off at 7pm at Gombani Stadium, could determine Kenya’s path to the Mapinduzi Cup title.

With a renewed sense of purpose and a squad growing in confidence, Kenya looks poised