Harambee Stars fall to Equatorial Guinea in Turkey

A solitary goal from Jose Miranda was enough to hand the Nzalang Nacional their first-ever victory over Kenya in two meetings.

The match began with head coach Benny McCarthy opting for a 4-4-2 lineup handing Nairobi United youngster Kevin Otiende his senior team debut at left-back.

Byrne Omondi started in goal, shielded by a backline of Rooney Onyango, Gor Mahia'e duo of Michael Kibwage and Sylvester Owino, with Otiende completing the defensive unit.

In midfield, Yanga's Duke Abuya marshalled the centre alongside Marvin Nabwire, while William Lenkupae and Boniface Muchiri occupied the wide roles. 

Upfront, McCarthy partnered Ryan Ogam with Jonah Ayunga in a twin-striker arrangement aimed at injecting more direct threat into Kenya’s attack.

Despite Kenya’s structured start, the contest remained tightly balanced until the dying minutes of the first half.

A challenge by Rooney Onyango on the lively Jose Miranda inside the penalty area was deemed a foul, earning the defender a yellow card. Miranda calmly converted from the spot, giving Equatorial Guinea a 1–0 lead at halftime.

The second half saw the Harambee Stars push forward in search of an equaliser, but clear-cut chances remained scarce.

McCarthy introduced Austin Odhiambo and Ovella Ochieng’ in a double substitution in the 70th minute, hoping to inject creativity and pace.

 Later, Shariff Musa and Alphonce Omija were brought on for Ogam and Kibwage, respectively, as Kenya reshuffled in the closing stages.

However, the Nzalang Nacional remained compact and disciplined, frustrating Kenya’s build-up play and limiting their attacking threats.

The match ended without further incident, sealing a memorable win for Equatorial Guinea and leaving the Harambee Stars to reflect on missed opportunities in an otherwise evenly contested tie.

Kenya will now shift focus to their next assignment, a high-profile clash against former African champions Senegal, as they conclude their November international window campaign and continue sharpening the team under McCarthy’s new technical direction.