Harambee Stars record biggest win over Malawi to book final spot in Four Nations tourney

Michael Olunga scored a brace to help Kenya beat Malawi 4-0 in their opening match of the inaugural four-nations tournament.

The Harambee Stars skipper opened his account in the first minute before adding the second goal three minutes later from the spot to put Harambee Stars in full control of the proceedings.

The two goals silenced the thousands of Malawi Flames fans who had assembled at the Bingu National Stadium in the capital city of Lilongwe to support their beloved team.

As the minutes went on, Malawi started to get into the game, causing constant problems to the Harambee Stars backline.

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However, the Kenyan players did not lose concentration, ensuring they went into the break in the driving seat.

The two teams returned from break firing from all cylinders with Olunga missing a golden opportunity to score a hat-trick when his shot hit a Malawi player just outside the 18-yard box.

Sensing danger, the hosts made three substitutions a few minutes later which breathed life into their midfield and attack, helping them to have more of the ball.

Similar to Malawi tactician Patrick Mabedi, Firat also made a change, replacing Daniel Anyembe with Amos Nondi.

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The changes made by Malawi bore fruits in the 66th minute when one of their players was brought down inside the penalty box, leaving the referee with no option but to point to the spot as Olunga got himself yellow carded while trying to protest the referee’s decision.

As the Malawi player prepared to take the penalty, the Stadium went silent in anticipation of a goal, but luck was not on their side as Kenya Police shot stopper Patrick Matasi saved the spot kick.

Ayub Timbe then extended Kenya's lead in the 83rd minute when he fired the ball into the back of the net from close range.

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Timbe’s goal was too much to bear for the Malawi Flames supporters as they started to exit the stadium one after another.

The situation got worse for them when substitute John Avire scored a worldie from outside the box in added time to make it 4-0 for Harambee Stars.

Harambee Stars are now expected to play Zimbabwe, who beat former African champions Zambia 6-5 on penalties in the match which was played earlier.  The match ended 2-2 in regulation time.

Firat will use the tournament to gauge his side ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup and African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers scheduled to be played later this year. 

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