AFCON2025Q: Kenya rallies to secure crucial 2-1 victory over Namibia

Kenya fought back to secure a 2-1 win over Namibia in their AFCON Qualifiers Group J clash held at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.

After a slow start in which Namibia dominated, second-half strikes from John Avire and Duke Abuya made the difference for the Harambee Stars. This result follows their goalless draw against Zimbabwe in Kampala, Uganda, during their group opener on Friday.

Kenya now shares the top spot in Group J with Cameroon, both sitting on four points after two rounds. Earlier in the day, Cameroon drew 0-0 with Zimbabwe in another Group J fixture, after narrowly defeating Namibia 1-0 in their opening match.

Namibia came out strong, with Orlando Pirates' star Deon Hotto testing Kenyan goalkeeper Byrne Omondi early on with a fierce shot in the 10th minute. Moments later, Prince Menelik won a free-kick on the edge of the Kenyan box, but the chance went begging.

Jonah Ayunga, earning his first start for Kenya, brought Harambee Stars their first real opportunity in the 28th minute, but his shot was blocked. Kenya's penalty appeals for a handball during the same play were dismissed by the referee.

Peter Shalulile appeared to give Namibia the lead in the 30th minute, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Kenya came close in the 43rd minute when Richard Odada's header from an Eric "Marcelo" Ouma corner flew just over the bar.

FT

We take maximum points at Orlando Stadium 💪

🇳🇦 1-2 🇰🇪#HarambeeStars pic.twitter.com/lUFAVde21o

— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) September 10, 2024

Namibia continued to press in the second half, with substitute Paulus Ileni striking the post after dispossessing Kenya's captain Joseph Okumu just after the break.

Kenya broke the deadlock in the 58th minute when John Avire curled in a stunning free-kick. Avire, who had missed earlier chances, finally delivered, much to the relief of coach Engin Firat and his technical team.

Namibia's pursuit of an equalizer left them vulnerable to Kenya’s counter-attacks, and in the 77th minute, Duke Abuya combined perfectly with Ouma to double Kenya’s advantage.

Namibia pulled one back in stoppage time through a poorly defended free-kick, with Deon Hotto capitalizing, but the Harambee Stars held on for the vital win.

Kenya’s next challenge will be against Cameroon as they aim to build on their strong start to the campaign and secure qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations.