This archive report was first published on 15 September 2021.
Kenya's Deaflympics squad is gearing up for a crucial match against Mali at the Africa Deaflympics Ball Games Qualifiers at Kasarani Stadium on September 11, 2021.
Head coach Ben Bella has emphasized the importance of scoring early and settling for a second goal to secure a win. 'An early goal will make us settle and a second goal will be an added advantage,' he told Standard Sports ahead of the match.
Coach Bella is also hopeful that two centre backs, Flavian Oluta and Boaz Rambidi, who missed the opening Group A match against Senegal due to passport issues, will be available for the upcoming fixture.
'The problems have been sorted, the two are available for the upcoming fixture,' Bella said.
Additionally, Gasper Asituha, who was sent off in the 82nd minute for a reckless tackle, will be replaced in the midfield by Enock Odhiambo.
The Kenyan squad has been perfecting the 4-3-3 formation during training at the Nyayo National Stadium, with the option to switch to 4-4-2 if necessary.
Coach Bella expressed confidence in his team's preparation, stating, 'We have worked on pressing, counter attack, positioning and balance and I am confident we will win.'
