Malawi tourney perfect build-up for Stars WC qualifiers, says Olunga

Harambee Stars skipper Michael Olunga believes this weekend’s Malawi tournament will serve as a perfect build up for the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June against Burundi and African champions Ivory Coast.

Speaking during an open media session yesterday before the team's departure to Malawi, Olunga said Zambia and Malawi, who have been in the recent Nations Cup, will give them a good test of what to expect in the qualifiers come June.

“This is a good build-up to the qualifiers because we are playing against teams that have had a test in the Nations Cup; hence, it will give us a good test of what to expect come June,” said Olunga

His sentiments were echoed by English-born Kenyan forward Jonah Paul Ayunga, who plays for St Mirren in the Scottish League, who is eager to wear the national team shirt for the first time.

“I am really pleased with the opportunity to represent the country in this tournament it has been a dream come true and i will give it my best shot when given the chance, “stated Ayunga

The 26-year-old added that he will take full advantage of any chance he gets to play for Kenya as he looks to cement his place in the Engin Firat-led team.

“There is healthy competition among the players in the team so everyone has to give it is his best to get the opportunity to get game time and that is good for me and the team,” the striker stated