Harambee Stars thump Grenada to seal podium finish in FIFA Series

Harambee Stars picked up their first-ever win in the FIFA Series after overcoming Grenada 2-0 to finish third in the mini tournament following an encounter played on Monday, 30 March at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali, Rwanda.

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First-half goals from Austin Odhiambo and Ryan Ogam ensured Kenya went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead, while a goal from Zech Obiero and ensured an emphatic win for Kenya.

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Benni McCarthy's charges opened the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Estonia before losing the match on post-match penalties, which set up a third-place playoff against Grenada, who lost to hosts Rwanda in their FIFA Series opener.

Harambee Stars showed intent from the onset, dominating possession and creating early chances.

Their persistence paid off in the 14th minute when Austin ‘Rolls Royce’ Odhiambo capitalised on a rebound after Grenada’s goalkeeper fumbled Ryan Ogam’s initial effort, giving Kenya a deserved lead.

Kenya continued to press, with Rooney Onyango and Clarke Oduor involved in attacking moves, though several attempts were thwarted by Grenada’s defense. Odhiambo came close again from a free kick, but his effort was blocked.

The second goal came after a well-worked team move. From a corner situation, the ball was circulated through Austine Odhiambo, Duke Abuya, and Ben-Stanley Omondi before finding Ryan Ogam, who calmly finished to double Kenya’s advantage before halftime.

Despite holding a comfortable 2-0 lead at the break, Kenya remained dominant but occasionally struggled with decision-making in the final third.

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Grenada attempted to respond, but goalkeeper Farouk Shikalo stood firm to deny them any foothold in the game.

The second half saw a series of attacking opportunities for Kenya. Duke Abuya and Austin Odhiambo combined well to set up Mohammed Bajaber early on, but the chance went begging. Alpha Onyango also tried his luck from a distance without success.

Changes made in the second half proved decisive. Daniel Sakari, Brian Bwire, Alphonse Omija, Zech Obiero, and Wilson Lenkupae were introduced, injecting fresh energy into the squad.

Obiero made an immediate impact, sealing the victory with Kenya’s third goal in the 81st minute. A flowing move involving Ouma, Sakari, and Lenkupae culminated in a precise setup for the Tranmere Rovers man, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net.

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Grenada’s hopes of a comeback were further diminished when a late attempt struck the post, while Kenya comfortably managed the closing stages, including five minutes of added time.