The Kenya National team, Harambee Stars, fell 2-0 to Algeria in their opening match of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, played on Sunday, June 23, 2019, at the Air Defense Stadium in Cairo, Egypt.
Making their first appearance in 15 years at the continental showpiece, Harambee Stars failed to settle and were duly punished in the 34th minute when Baghdad Bounedjah converted from the spot after Dennis Odhiambo was adjudged to have caused an infringement in the box.
As the match seemed to be heading to the breather with Algeria in a 1-0 lead, captain Riyad Mahrez doubled the North Africans side’s advantage with a tap in from a low cut back for a 2-0 halftime score.
Stars came back more rejuvenated but couldn’t find a way past the Algerian side, the match ending 2-0 in Les Verts’ favor.
Kenya will look to bounce back when they face Tanzania in their second match set to be played on June 27, 2019, at the same venue.
Also Read: FKF President’s message to Kenyans, Harambee Stars players ahead of Algeria tie
Starting XI
18. Patrick Matasi, 20. Philemon Otieno, 3. Abud Omar, 2. Joseph Okumu, 5. Musa Mohamed, 21. Dennis Odhiambo (17. Ismael Gonzalez), 12. Victor Wanyama, 11. Francis Kahata (13. Eric Ouma), 7. Ayub Timbe, 10. Eric Johanna (8. Johanna Omollo), 14. Michael Olunga
Substitutes
1. Faruk Shikalo, 23. John Oyemba, 15. David Owino, 6. Bernard Ochieng, 19. Ovella Ochieng, 16. Paul Were, 9. John Avire, 22. Masud Juma
Also Read: Joash Onyango ruled out of Algeria AFCON Qualifier