This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
On Sunday, Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga made history by captaining the national team for the first time in an international friendly against Uganda at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi.
Coached by Francis Kimanzi in his first game in charge, Olunga led the team to a 1-1 draw against Uganda, impressing in phases throughout the match.
Uganda took the lead in the first half when Emmanuel Okwi's skillful play left Gor Mahia defender Joash Onyango on his backside, and he then fired a left-footed cross past Patrick Matasi.
However, the hosts equalised immediately after the restart, thanks to a good linkage of play between Eric 'Marcelo' Ouma and Ayub Timbe down the left flank, which left Kenneth Muguna with the easiest of jobs to tap in past Uganda goalie Charles Luwaga.
Uganda's stand-in coach Abdalla Mubiru praised the match as a good test for both teams and quality preparations for their upcoming assignments, including qualifying for the next Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup or Olympics.
Kenya is preparing to face Egypt and Togo in the opening fixtures of the 2021 Africa Nations Cup qualifiers in November, and will also face Libya and Mozambique in build-up matches prior to that.
As quoted by Nairobi News, Olunga said, 'It was an honour to captain the Kenya national team (Harambee Stars) for the first time in my career. The boys gave a good account of themselves. The future is positive. Thank you for the support.'
