This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
On Thursday, Harambee Stars produced one of their finest displays in recent times, holding hosts Egypt to a thrilling 1-1 draw in their opening Group G match of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Alexandria.
Despite being without key players Mohammed Salah and Abdullah El-Said, Egypt took the lead just before halftime through Mahmoud Kahraba's goal.
However, Harambee Stars fought back gallantly in the second half, with Michael Olunga equalizing with 20 minutes left to play.
Coach Francis Kimanzi made crucial substitutions in the opening half hour, replacing injured players Patrick Matasi and Ayub Timbe with Ian Otieno and Cliff Nyakeya, respectively.
Kenya struggled to contain Egypt's slick passing midfield, led by Aston Villa winger Mohamed Trezeguet, but managed to hold their ground.
After 14 minutes, Ahmed Fathi brought down Ayub Timbe down the left-hand side, but the resultant free-kick failed to trouble goalkeeper Mohammed El Shenaway.
Later, Otieno saved Mohamed Abdel Mondem's shot at the edge of the area, and then Timbe's shot from point-blank range was easily gathered by El Shenaway.
However, moments later, Kahraba reacted quickly to tap in an empty net after Otieno's clearance came off Zamalek midfielder's shin.
But Harambee Stars refused to give up, and Olunga equalized after Nyakeya chased a lost cause and managed to pass the ball to Olunga, who finished swiftly with his left foot.
Stars are expected back home on Saturday ahead of their next match in this competition versus Togo at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Monday.
