STARS ABROAD: Wanjala starts for Valencia as Kenyan stars feature in Europe

There was action for four Harambee Stars players in Spain and England, with the most notable being the continued integration of Harambee Stars defender Amos Wanjala into the Valencia first team.

After starting on the bench in their 22 July friendly against Eldense, Wanjala was handed a starting berth in Valencia's friendly against Castellón on Saturday, 25 July.

Wanjala, who played at right-back, featured throughout the first half before being substituted at the break as Valencia made 11 changes at half-time.

By the time of his substitution, the two teams were still deadlocked at 0-0. However, the second half proved more dramatic as Castellón scored twice, in the 50th and 60th minutes, while the match also saw three players sent off—two for Valencia and one for the visitors.

In the end, Valencia suffered a 2-0 defeat as they continued preparations for the 2026/27 La Liga season, with Wanjala working hard to secure a place in the first team.

In England, Harambee Stars defender Deon Woodman started for Bromley FC as they secured an impressive 3-0 win over Premier League side Crystal Palace.

Woodman started at the heart of the defence and played 78 minutes before being replaced by Ben Thompson.

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By the time of his substitution, Bromley were leading 2-0 courtesy of a brace from Nigerian striker Victor Adeboyejo before Congolese forward Nicke Kabamba sealed the victory with an 86th-minute strike.

Also in England, Zech Obiero started for Leyton Orient in their 1-1 draw against Southend United. Obiero, who spent last season on loan at Tranmere Rovers, will be hoping to impress and earn a regular place in the team.

Finally, Micah Obiero also started for National League side Wealdstone in their 2-0 victory over MK Dons as he continues his preparations ahead of the new season.

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