This will be Harambee Stars U23's second match in the ongoing COSAFA Cup after overcoming Zambia 2-0 in their opening match
Emerging Stars next game is against Comoros on Sunday afternoon at the Wolfson Stadium in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
Kenya was invited as a guest team for the Southern Africa tournament and opted to send an U23 National side.
Morocco is the highest ranked African nation at position 12 globally
Kenya registered back to back draw against Burundi and Ivory Coast in 2026 World Cup qualifiers
Doubts abound on Harambee Stars’ quality as Kenya looks to bounce back against African Champions Ivory Coast in crucial World Cup Qualifier match
The two teams will be back in action on Tuesday
Morocco remains number 1 in Africa while World champions Argentina continue to remain top of the rankings followed by 2022 FIFA World Cup runners-up France in second place.
Both teams used the friendly as last preparations for their upcoming international assignments. Kenya U20 is heading to Malawi for the Four Nations Tournament while the Talanta Hela U19 will play in either the MIC or the Costa Daurada tournaments.
Notable additions include Murang’a Seal’s Bonphas Munyasa, Alphonse Omija from Oman, and Scotland-based Jonah Ayunga. Additionally, Firat has recalled familiar faces like Egypt-based striker John Avire and Bandari FC goalkeeper Bryne Omondi, who have both made a comeback after periods of absence.
Expressing frustration with critics who questioned his award in light of Harambee Stars' drop in the FIFA rankings, Firat clarified that the decline was a consequence of not participating in official matches during a ban period.
Beginning his journey at Esbjerg's academy in 2009, Anyembe made his European debut for the first team during the 2017/18 season. Since joining Viborg on a contract until June 30, 2025, he has accumulated 56 appearances for the Danish Superliga club.
Kheri advocates for the active involvement of all stakeholders, including veteran players and coaches, in football administration. He stresses the value of experience, recommending that leaders seek advice from seasoned individuals without financial constraints.
At the time, Wanyama was a burgeoning 21-year-old midfielder who had joined Celtic in 2011. Sky Sports also reported Manchester United's interest in Wanyama, confirming that Sir Alex Ferguson had indeed attended the match to scout the talented player.
While the fluctuating results influenced Harambee Stars' FIFA ranking, maintaining a position at 110th, it also underscored the need for consistent finishing and tactical development.
Wanyama, highly regarded as one of Kenya's most-capped players, boasts an impressive record of 64 international appearances. Over his 14-year international career, he has made substantial contributions to the national team, including scoring seven goals.
In the face of a FIFA ban on Kenya due to government interference, Firat adeptly managed the team through international friendlies and a Four Nations tournament in Mauritius, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Argentina maintains its top position, solidifying its standing after overcoming fifth-placed Brazil in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in November.
The player’s philanthropic efforts come on the heels of a successful campaign with Danish side Aalborg, where he has made a significant impact since joining on loan from the US club Philadelphia Union.