Harambee Stars meeting with Algeria at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations Tournament this Sunday is easily the most important fixture in more ways than one. Sebastian Migne needs to get his tactics spot on against the speedy and dangerous North Africans, led by the mercurial Riyad Mahrez.
Below we look at the players that will likely start for Harambee Stars in the Group C opening match at the 30 June Stadium.
Defense
Patrick Matasi started in goal for both pre-Tournament friendly matches and saved two penalties. Aboud Omar has been a sure starter at left back under Migne. Joash Onyango’s calmness both on and off the ball means that he starts in central defense partnered by former Gor Mahia captain Musa Mohammed.
Fresh from winning the Kenya Premier League with Gor Mahia, Philemon Otieno should get the nod at right back.
Midfield
Victor Wanyama skippers the team from the center of the pitch to continue his excellent partnership with Dennis Odhiambo. Migne normally employs the two in a double pivot. Ahead of them, Francis Kahata links up play beautifully acting as the extra man in attack and the middle of the park.
Attack
Harambee Stars will likely sit back and wait to hit Algeria on the counter. Luckily for Migne, he has the exact kind of wingers needed for this approach. Ayub Timbe and Eric Johanna on either flank spell trouble for the opposing full backs as has been the case during the qualifier matches.
Micheal Olunga will lead Kenya’s search for goals Egypt as he did in all qualifier matches.
Honorable mentions
Paul Were is as just as good as the two wingers but has to make do with a place on the bench. Same goes for the left-back Eric Marcello Ouma.
Probable Line-Up
Patrick Matasi, Philemon Otieno, Aboud Omar, Joash Onyango, Musa Mohammed, Dennis Odhiambo, Victor Wanyama, Francis Kahata, Ayub Timbe, Johanna Omollo, Micheal Olunga. (4-2-3-1).