COSAFA Cup: Three changes for Kenya in key match against Zimbabwe
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 02.07.24. | 12:30
Ken Odhiambo's team find themselves in a do-or-die situation in this afternoon's final Group B game
Kenya U23s national team head coach Ken Odhiambo has made three changes to the squad that lost to Comoros for this afternoon's Group B contest against Zimbabwe.
Left-back Geoffrey Onyango, who helped Kenya register a 2-0 victory over Zambia in the team's opening fixture, is reinstated back into the fold for Paul Ochuoga.
The other two changes are in midfield and attack, where AFC Leopards duo Kaycie Odhiambo and Hassan Beja come in place of John Ochieng and Patrick Otieno.
The changes ring in days after the Emerging Stars suffered their first defeat of the tournament on Sunday, and are now in a must-win scenario when they take to the Wolfson Stadium in KwaZakele from 1300 EAT.
The Kariobangi Sharks left-back Ochieng, is seen to be a direct replacement for the distraught Ochuoga, who couldn't last a half in the Comoros game; picking up two quick yellow cards and conceding a penalty in the process.
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Ochieng's ability to defend and still provide options upfront will be key for Kenya, as will the other change involving Kayci coming in for Zanaco midfielder Ochieng.
The former Gor Mahia man was a starter in both Kenya's games - including a 2-0 victory over Zambia last Thursday - but was hooked off early in Sunday's game against Comoros.
The decision to bring in Beja for front-man Otieno on the other hand probably indicates a change in formation, with the former set to occupy the left-wing in support of lone target man Benson Omala.
That also means that Rooney Onyango, who is also the team's skipper, will play further upfront and act as the right-winger with Austin Odhiambo as a 10.
You can get to read more about what Kenya needs to get into the last four with a win today.
STARTNG XI: Bryne Omondi, Alphonce Omija, Geoffrey Ochieng, Sylvester Owino, Amos Wanjala, Chrispine Erambo, Kaycie Odhiambo, Austin Odhiambo, Rooney Onyango, Hassan Beja, Benson Omala.
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