AFCON Qualifier: Okwemba backs Stars to upset Cameroon in Douala

Former Kenya international Charles Okwemba believes Harambee Stars have what it takes to beat African giants and five-time Africa Cup of Nations winners Cameroon when the two sides collide in the 2025 AFCON qualifier on Friday.

The Stars are pooled together with the Indomitable Lions, Zimbabwe and Namibia and top Group ‘J’ on four points.

A win or draw in the double-header- in Douala and in Kampala- will put the Kenyans in strong contention for a slot to the 2025 AFCON Finals and Okwemba is talking up the Stars chances.

 “The squad is great; the players look excited ahead of the mission and they look determined, that is why they are top of the group,’’ he said. ‘’They need to respect them because they are a powerhouse in Africa.”

The Stars battle the Cameroonians on Friday and face off in the return leg on Monday in Kampala Uganda and the former midfield maestro has warned Stars to capitalize on every chance they create during the game in order to avoid a last minute upset.

“Stars have to capitalize on every chance they create and avoid simple mistakes in every department; that is how such games are won; discipline has to be top north in every department, ”Okwemba said.

Kenya who top the group standings with four points, same as Cameroon, will be playing without fans in Kampala but the former midfielder believes the home boys will still be motivated to deliver a good result.

“Fans push the players to deliver but at the same time they can put too much pressure on the players; what needs to focus on is good results that every Kenyan is waiting for,”stated the former midfielder.