Harambee Stars go hunting in first-ever clash against Russia

By Tony Kipkorir

Kenya and Russia will lock horns for the first time ever in an international friendly match set to be played on Monday 16 October 2023 at the Titanic Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkey.

The game comes at a time when Russia is banned from taking part in competitive international tournaments by FIFA. 

Since the ban came into action at the start of 2022, Russia has taken part in seven friendly matches.

The Valeri Karpin coached side played their latest one against Cameroon on Thursday, October 12 with Fyodor Chalov’s 40th minute goal helping Russia to beat the West African nation.

Kenya, meanwhile, has taken part in a number of friendly matches this year as the team prepares for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon.

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Harambee Stars narrowly lost 1-0 to neighbors South Sudan in their recent friendly match staged at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani on Tuesday, September 12.

Here is everything you need to know regarding the eagerly anticipated clash. 

What time does Kenya vs Russia start?

The match is expected to start at 7:00 pm East African Time.

Kenya vs Russia Team News

Kenya will be without exciting right-back Daniel Anyembe. The 25-year-old failed to link up with the team in Turkey after his club Viborg FF refused to release him. 

Reliable winger Ayub Timbe is also a doubt for the match due to an injury related issue.

Vincent Harper, who plays professional football in England and Gor Mahia star Rooney Onyango are expected to make their debuts.

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On the other hand, Russia will rely on the squad which beat Cameroon to do the job. However, Monaco star Aleksandr Golovin did not join the squad during this international break. 

What they said

“This is the third high-profile friendly match we have played this year. We feel ready, and I am hopeful that come next month, we shall be fully ready for the qualifiers,” said midfielder Kenneth Muguna.

“My job is to build a formidable team for the upcoming assignments (World Cup qualifiers). Against Iran, we played well. Against Qatar, we got the result we wanted against the Asian champions.

These friendlies are not just about results but opening up opportunities for Kenyan football,” Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat said.

"I am hopeful that these matches will not only expose our players to better opportunities but also market Kenyan football and, in the long run, generate income for our clubs through transfer fees,” the coach aadded.

Also Read: Kenya humble Angola to set date with Cameroon in U20 World Cup qualifiers

 Kenya Possible Starting Lineup

Byrne Odhiambo (GK), Joseph Okumu, Johnstone Omurwa, Eric Ouma, Rooney Onyango, Kenneth Muguna, Richard Odada, Masud Juma, Anthony Akumu, Ovella Ochieng, Michael Olunga

Russia Possible Starting Lineup

Matvei Safonov (GK), Yevgeni Kharin, Maksim Osipenko, Aleksandr Soldatenkov, Aleksandr Silyanov, Danil Glebov, Aleksei Miranchuk, Daniil Fomin, Ivan Oblyakov, Sergei Pinyayev, Fyodor Chalov

Also Read: AFC Leopards confirm reappointment of Czech tactician as new head coach

 Kenya vs Russia Current Form

The Russians are unbeaten in five of their latest friendly matches, winning three and picking up two draws in the process.

The team which is ranked 39th in the FIFA Rankings recorded victories over Iraq, Egypt U23 and Cameroon.

Sbornaya as they are commonly known also played to a 1-1 draw with Egypt U23 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts Qatar.

Harambee Stars on the other hand won two and lost three in their recent five matches.

The Engin Firat charges triumphed against Pakistan and Qatar but lost to Iran, Mauritius and South Sudan.