Kenya played out two 1-1 draws in their first two matches at the ongoing 2021 Africa Cup Of Nations qualifiers. The first was in an impressive showing away to Egypt while the other was a disappointing outing at home to Togo.
It is clear that Francis Kimanzi will need to make a few changes to his squad before Kenya plays Comoros in the next match. Below, we look at the changes that the head coach should make to his team.
Wanyama-Juma midfield combo
The two started in both stalemates and the signs were not positive. Wanyama is a defensive midfielder and plays in that position for Tottenham Hotspur and so does Lawrence Juma for Gor Mahia.
When paired together in a double pivot, the team fails to build attacks from midfield and leaves the third midfielder with too much to do. Against Togo, Micheal Olunga was denied any kind of service but this was largely due to the fact that the midfield behind him was too defensively minded.
Joash Onyango at center back
The Gor Mahia defender is often sloppy with his passing, slow to the ball and late on the tackle. He was booked against Togo and was lucky to escape a second one late on.
It feels like it is time for Kimanzi to find a new partner for Joseph Okumu at the heart of the Harambee Stars defense.
Eric Johanna As A winger
The attacking midfielder was deployed as a winger in both matches and he faltered to convince on both occasions. He does not have the speed and trickery needed from a winger and results in taking wild shots from unfavorable positions that are mostly off-target.
Francis Kimanzi will need to find a position that fits Eric Johanna’s playstyle or better yet, find a better winger!