Player ratings: Olunga fire blanks as Cameroon down Kenya to seal 2025 AFCON ticket

Boris Enow stole the spotlight with a brilliant free kick that secured the win for Cameroon. However, this did not overshadow Odhiambo's composed performance earlier in the game. Odhiambo revived Kenya's hopes after their poor display in Yaoundé last Friday. The Bandari goalkeeper excelled in one-on-one situations and made several long-range saves to keep Kenya in contention. Although he conceded from a set piece, Odhiambo had clearly tracked the shot, but it appeared to trouble him after seemingly taking a deflection.

The Viborg utility player frequently blocked crosses despite struggling to keep up with Cameroon's pacey wingers. In the first half, Anyembe defended solidly and stayed close to the Indomitable Lions' attackers, but he was substituted at halftime. His contributions were far more impactful when Kenya was out of possession than when they had the ball.

Calmness, composure, well-timed runs, and precise ball distribution defined Okumu's performance in Uganda. He made a crucial block in the box, but given his ability, much more is expected from him.

Omurwa's return to the backline brought new energy to the team, with his aggressiveness playing a key role in keeping Kenya in the game. He excelled when called upon to defend wide and cover for Erick Ouma during attacking runs, making him one of the standout performers in the defense today.

His confidence, timely tackles, and accurate forward passes were key aspects of his game over the two legs. He frequently dropped back to support the central defenders when the visitors applied pressure and cleared his lines effectively. Although he occasionally lost focus and strayed wide, he generally had a solid defensive performance.

Akumu had a decent game out of possession and marked his men well. Akumu proved his still a dependable player for Kenya at the middle of the park and will be instrumental in the remaining two group games.

Like Akumu, Odada excelled off the ball, but his lack of club minutes was apparent, as he showed signs of rust. He will need more game time to regain his full form.

Onyango had a quiet first half, but the halftime talk seemed to ignite his performance in the second. He was sharp on the ball, linked up well on the right flank, and pushed higher into the final third. However, he still needs to improve his final pass.

We all know what Avire can do offensively on a good day but he seemed overwhelmed by his markers. However, he did well for the 67 minutes he was on the field as he constantly tried running in behind the defenders.

Olunga struggled with his finishing, missing three clear chances and committing unnecessary fouls from behind. He seemed off his game and will need to elevate his performance as captain to inspire the team’s tempo. Throughout the match, he lacked the cutting edge needed to make an impact.

He was undoubtedly the best player for Kenya on the field until he was substituted. His quality and skill set elevated him above his teammates, and he frequently drifted in from the right side, a trait he has developed at the club level. His connections with Alphonse Omija and Rooney Onyango were particularly evident. However, he needs to improve his decision-making, as he missed a crucial opportunity to put Kenya ahead by opting to square the ball to Avire, whose shot went over the bar.

He came on in the second half and delivered a significantly improved performance compared to last week. He was more involved in attacking plays, which is something Engin Firat will be pleased to see and can build upon in the upcoming matches.

Noor played on the wing instead of his initial inside 8 and 10 we hope to see him soon replicate the form he has at club level

He managed to silent Christian Bassogog and clinical on one vs one situations

No ratings for him as he came late in the game though looked lively