This archive report was first published on 2 July 2019.
On 1 July 2019, Kenya's Harambee Stars suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat at the hands of Senegal in a highly anticipated AFCON match at the 30 June stadium in Egypt.
The loss leaves Kenya third in their group with a four-goal deficit, making their qualification to the next round uncertain.
Coach Sebastian Migne expressed his disappointment after the match, stating that his team had created problems for the Senegalese side, but ultimately fell short.
"We are not so far as well as not so close, I am disappointed for my boys because close to one hour we created some problems for Senegalese teams," Migne said in an after-match interview.
Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, who plays for St. George's side in Ethiopia, made several heroic saves throughout the match, including denying Senegal a chance to take the lead in the first half.
Matasi attributed his saves to his experience and knowledge of the opponent's tactics, saying, "Looking at the first penalty, I knew I was going to save it basing on the position Mane was standing before taking the penalty."
Despite their valiant efforts, Kenya's defensive tactics were wanting, and they will need to work on improving their game if they hope to make it to the knockout stages.
With the outcome of the final group stage matches still uncertain, Kenya will be watching closely to assess their chances of advancing to the next round.
