Odhiambo: Harambee Stars are on the right track

Odhiambo, who doubles up as Bandari FC head coach, has his hopes pegged on recent Harambee Stars improved performance in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Stars were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe on September 6 in the opening Group J fixture played in Uganda before they got the qualifying campaign back on track with a 2-1 win over Namibia in the second match four days later at Orlando Stadium in South Africa.

“Stars future is bright. Kenyans see Namibia as a weaker side but look how they performed during the last AFCON, so we won against a strong team. The speed of the game was electrifying and we managed to come out with the maximum points,” said Odhiambo during a Bandari FC training session on Friday.

The outing saw Kenya reap six places up in the latest world FIFA ranking released on Thursday, jumping from position 108 to 102 and increasing their points build-up from 1,197 to 1,208 points.

In the two matches, Kenya did without their captain and top striker Michael Olunga as the Al-Duhail SC talisman sat out injured, and Odhiambo believes a full house Harambee Stars will be a big threat in the coming matches.

He also heaped praises on Bandari FC duo goalkeeper Bryne Odhiambo and defender Sharif Majabe for pulling on the national team shirt.

“You saw what Bryne did, he was outstanding and I believe he should not be playing in Kenya right now and also Majabe though he was a late call up but he put a massive energy during training. I know if he keeps the same spirit he will get another chance to represent the country.”

"For the other players, not only in Bandari, but also in the other teams, just do your best and your hard work will get paid. You don't have to have your coach at Harambee Stars to get a call-up,” he added.

Harambee Stars form will however be put to test next month when Kenya face powerhouse and five-time African champions Cameroon in the next Afcon qualifiers.

The two teams clash on October 7 in the first leg before the reverse fixture eight days later.

Stars last appeared in the Afcon in 2019, and they are eager to make a return to the continental stage.