Kenya vs Namibia Prediction, Preview, Head to Head, Team News, and Possible Lineups | AFCON Qualifiers.
- Tournament: Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers
- Fixtures: Kenya National Football Team vs Namibia National Football Team
- Date: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
- Kick-off Time: 1:00 PM GMT
- Venue: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane, South Africa
Match Preview
Kenya National Football Team and Namibia square off in what is largely a contest for pride in Group J of the Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers. With both teams eliminated from contention for the top two positions, the stakes for this match are low. However, both sides will aim to end their campaigns on a positive note with a morale-boosting victory.
Kenya, the nominal home team for this fixture, had their chances of qualification dashed following a 0-0 draw with Zimbabwe in their previous match. They currently sit on five points after five games, with one win, two draws, and two losses.
Namibia’s campaign has been even more dismal. They remain winless in the group, with just one point secured from a goalless draw against Cameroon. This match presents a last opportunity for the Brave Warriors to salvage some pride.
Kenya Team News
The Harambee Stars have a full-strength squad available for selection, with no reported injuries or suspensions. The return of their star forward Michael Olunga could provide a much-needed boost for their attack, which has underperformed in this qualification campaign.
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Namibia Team News
Namibia National Football Team also boasts a clean bill of health. While their defensive unit has struggled throughout the qualifiers, the team will rely on key players such as captain Riaan Hanamub to put up a strong fight in their final group game.
Predicted Lineups
Kenya National Football Team Predicted Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Patrick Odhiambo
- Defenders: Sakari, Okumu, Omurwa, Ouma
- Midfielders: Odada, Abuya, Akumu, Ouma, Odhiambo
- Forward: Michael Olunga
Namibia National Football Team Predicted Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Maova
- Defenders: Katua, Eib, Hambira, Hanamub, Kamberipa
- Midfielders: Petrus, Ngaruka, Hotto, Shalulile
- Forward: Tjiueza
Head-to-Head Record
Kenya and Namibia have clashed seven times in competitive football. The results reflect a closely contested rivalry:
Result | Competition | Date |
---|---|---|
Namibia 1-2 Kenya | AFCON Qualifiers | September 10, 2024 |
Kenya 1-0 Namibia | World Cup Qualifiers | September 8, 2013 |
Namibia 1-0 Kenya | World Cup Qualifiers | September 9, 2012 |
- Kenya Wins: 3
- Namibia Wins: 4
- Draws: 0
Key Players to Watch
Michael Olunga (Kenya)
Olunga, the captain and star striker for Kenya, plays for Al Duhail SC in Qatar. Known for his lethal finishing and physicality, Olunga is a crucial player for the Harambee Stars. Although he has struggled to make an impact in this qualifying campaign, this game provides an opportunity for redemption. His ability to exploit weak defenses could make the difference.
Riaan Hanamub (Namibia)
Namibia’s captain, Riaan Hanamub, is a tireless defender who has been a standout performer for his team. Despite Namibia’s poor run in the qualifiers, Hanamub’s leadership and defensive acumen are assets. He will need to rally his team and aim for a clean sheet in this fixture.
Kenya vs Namibia Prediction
Kenya enters this game as the favorite, given their superior squad quality and slightly better form. Playing as the home team will also provide an advantage, even though the match is on neutral ground in South Africa.
Namibia, on the other hand, has struggled to find the net and has failed to show resilience throughout the qualifiers. While they may put up a fight, it is unlikely they will topple Kenya in this match.
Soccer Baba Predicted Scoreline: Kenya 2-1 Namibia
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Where to Watch Kenya vs Namibia Live?
Country | Broadcast Channel |
---|---|
USA | BeIN Sports |
UK | Not Available |
India | FanCode |
Kenya | Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) |
Conclusion
While this match may lack the stakes of qualification, it offers both Kenya and Namibia a chance to end their campaigns with pride. Kenya’s more balanced squad and the presence of star players like Michael Olunga give them the edge, but Namibia will aim to surprise. This clash is bound to deliver competitive football and a moment for fans to cheer as the curtains fall on Group J action.