Austin Odhiambo responds to Kenyans' frustrations after Harambee Stars' FIFA Series performance
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 31.03.26. | 20:07
However, the campaign began on a mixed note as the national side settled for a 1-1 draw against Estonia in their opening match at Amahoro Stadium
Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo has moved to address growing frustration among Kenyan fans following the national team’s third-place finish in the FIFA Series held in Kigali, Rwanda.
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Kenya was drawn alongside hosts Rwanda, Estonia, and Grenada in the four-team mini tournament, with expectations high for a strong showing.
However, the campaign began on a mixed note as the national side settled for a 1-1 draw against Estonia in their opening match at Amahoro Stadium.
Despite a spirited performance, the Harambee Stars fell short in the subsequent penalty shootout, losing 5-4 after missed spot-kicks from Mohammed Bajaber and Richard Odada's Panenka.
The result denied Kenya a place in the final, instead condemning them to a third-place playoff against Grenada.
Under the guidance of Benni McCarthy, the team responded positively, securing a convincing 3-0 victory over Grenada.
The 2023/24 FKF Premier League Most Valuable Player (MVP) opened the scoring in a performance that underlined his growing influence in the squad before Ryan Ogam and Zech Obiero subsequently found the back of the net.
Speaking after the match, Odhiambo acknowledged the dissatisfaction among supporters, admitting that expectations were higher within the camp.
“It’s okay for the fans not to be happy because they are used to winning. Even as players, we are not satisfied with finishing third. It is normal in football, and they have the right to demand more,” he stated.
The former AFC Leopards talisman also highlighted the emergence of young talents such as Zech Obiero, Manzur Okwaro, Frank Odhiambo, and Job Ochieng, describing the blend of youth and experience as a promising foundation for the future.
"I feel good to score for the national team as a forward. More importantly, the presence of young talents in the squad is encouraging. The blending of youth and experience is crucial and will definitely give us a solid foundation for the future,” he added.