The Kenya National football team, Harambee Stars, dispatched Ethiopia 3-0 to edge closer to a return to the Africa Cup of Nations in a match played on Sunday, October 14, 2018, at the MISC Kasarani.

Stars dominated proceedings early in the match in search of the opener which eventually came in the 23rd minute when Michael Olunga curled in a left-footed effort from long range.

Eric Johanna doubled the scores four minutes later from close range when the guests’ defense failed to deal with the lanky Olunga, the first half ending 2-0.

Kenya vs Ethiopia

Harambee Stars players celebrate Eric Johanna’s goal during their Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier against Ethiopia at the MISC Kasarani.

Upon resumption, Harambee Stars did not relent, with Johanna turning provider when he was brought down inside the box. Captain Victor Wanyama stepped up to calmly slot in the resultant spot-kick.

Olunga had a chance to make it four when he was left one on one with Ethiopia goalkeeper but the later parried it away, with Kenya holding on for a crucial win.

Kenya is now in pole position for a place in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations having amassed seven points so far.

Kenya Starting XI

18. Patrick Matasi (GK), 3. Abud Omar, 15. Philemon Otieno, 5. Brian Mandela, 2. Musa Mohamed, 21. Dennis Odhiambo, 12. Victor Wanyama (C), 10. Eric Johanna, 16. Francis Kahata, 13. Eric Ouma, 14. Michael Olunga

Substitutes

1. Faruk Shikalo, 23. Brian Bwire, 20. Bernard Ochieng, 22. Joash Onyango, 4. David Ochieng, 6. Anthony Akumu, 8. Johanna Omollo, 17. Ismael Gonzalez, 19. Paul Were, 7. Ovella Ochieng, 9. Piston Mutamba, 11. Allan Wanga

Ethiopia Starting XI

1. Samson Asefa (GK), 9. Getaneh Kebede (9), 15. Aschalew Tamene, 4. Anteneh Tesfaye, 20. Mulualem Mesfen, 3. Ahmed Reshad, 6. Gatoch Panom, 18. Shemeles Bekele, 2. Abdulkerim Mohamed, 12. Dawa Hotessa, 11. Shemket Gugesa

Substitutes

23. Shanko Balcha, 17. Mujib Kasim, 5. Henok Gebra, 13. Kastro Amaye, 21. Amesalu Telahune, 11. Omod Okwury, 7. Abel Yalew, 10. Beneyam Demte, 14. Adis Giday, 8. Amanuel Yohannes, 19. Kenyan Markene, 23. Tyson Merya

Also Read: Harambee Stars starting lineup for Ethiopia Africa Qualifier named