Kenya defeats Burundi 1-0 in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers as Ryan Ogam scores 72nd-minute winner. Harambee Stars move to 3rd in Group F with 12 points. Read how the Harambee Stars secured the win with full stats!
The Harambee Stars clinched a crucial victory today against Burundi in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, moving up to third place in Group F with 12 vital points. The match, which saw its fair share of drama early on, was ultimately decided by the sensational form of striker Ryan Ogam, who delivered a beautiful 72nd-minute goal to secure the three points.
If you were searching for how the events unfolded in this tense qualifier, you've come to the right place for the full match summary, lineups, and analysis of this massive result for Coach Benni McCarthy's side.
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The match began with high intensity, resulting in a shocking early incident. Just three minutes into the game, tragedy struck for the Harambee Stars when goalkeeper Bryan Okoth was forced to leave the field after a dangerous challenge. Opponent Bimenyimana B slid in and made contact with Okoth's face, immediately forcing a substitution.
The match referee did not hesitate, issuing a red card to Bimenyimana B. for the dangerous foul play, giving Kenya a significant advantage for the remainder of the game. Substitute goalkeeper Bryne Omondi replaced Okoth between the sticks.
| First Half Stats | Burundi (10 men) | Kenya |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Possession | 55% | 45% |
| Total Shots | 2 | 2 |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 1 |
| Corner Kicks | 1 | 1 |
| Yellow cards | 0 | 2 |
| Red Cards | 1 | 0 |
The table above shows 1st half match statistics
Despite playing with a man advantage for nearly the entire half, Kenya produced an underwhelming performance in the first 45 minutes, failing to convert dominance into a goal. The first half finished goalless, with both sides cautious on goal.
The turning point came in the 72nd minute, and it was a moment of pure quality that only a player in form can deliver.
Star forward Michael Ogada (wearing number 14) showcased brilliant hold-up play to receive the ball before laying it off perfectly for Ryan Ogam (a substitute at number 15) just outside the box. Ogam's first touch was sublime, setting himself up perfectly. With his magic left foot, he unleashed a shot with the inside of his boot that found the back of the net, leaving the Burundi goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
This single moment secured the Kenya vs Burundi 1-0 result.
Image above shows Ryan Ogam celebrating his goal against Burundi
Ryan Ogam is currently in the form of his life for the Harambee Stars, proving to be the team's most reliable goalscorer in the World Cup Qualifiers. His strike today marks his third consecutive match with a goal, bringing his tally to four in the last three games:
The Gambia: ⚽️
Seychelles: ⚽️⚽️
Burundi: ⚽️
Despite the man advantage, the statistics show a competitive contest, though Kenya clearly dominated in the second half.
Full Time Match Stats
| Match stats | Burundi | kenya |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Possession | 49% | 51% |
| Total Shots | 7 | 6 |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 3 |
| Corner Kicks | 1 | 3 |
| Yellow cards | 0 | 3 |
| Red cards | 1 | 0 |
| Fouls | 18 | 8 |
Kenya held a marginal edge in possession and total shots but showed much-needed discipline, committing only 8 fouls compared to 18 by the 10-man Burundi side. The win is a massive testament to Coach Benni McCarthy's strategy following the early red card.
Kenya Starting Eleven: Okoth (18, replaced by Odhiambo 23), Sichenje (19), Ahono (2), Wilson (6), Abuya (8), Otieno (10), Lenkupae Jnr (11), Harper (13), Ogada (14), Otieno (16), Suleiman (20).
Coach: Benni McCarthy.
Image above is the starting eleven of Kenya against Burundi
The result moves the Harambee Stars to 3rd place in Group F. Their next crucial challenge sees them travel to Abidjan to face group leaders Ivory Coast on Tuesday.
This report was filed immediately following the Burundi 0-1 Kenya result in the World Cup Qualifiers.
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