This archive report was first published on 16 November 2019.
Kenya's Harambee Stars are facing a major injury concern ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Togo, with goalkeeper Patrick Matasi and winger Ayub Timbe both ruled out due to injuries sustained in their 1-1 draw against Egypt on Thursday.
Matasi suffered a thigh strain, while Timbe aggravated a foot injury in the match, which was played in Alexandria. Timbe is currently undergoing treatment in Belgium and is expected to return to Nairobi on Saturday evening.
Stars coach Francis Kimanzi has expressed his concerns about the duo's availability for the Togo match, stating that they will have to undergo late fitness tests in Kenya to determine if they will play a part in the match.
Despite the injury concerns, Kimanzi was impressed with the performance of Ian Otieno, who replaced Matasi in the match, and praised the entire team for their efforts.
“Matasi and Ayub are still being assessed by the medical team and will have to undergo late fitness tests in Kenya to determine if they will play a part in the Togo match,” Kimanzi told Nation Sport.
Kenya qualified for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations after a decade and a half, and Kimanzi is eager to guide the team back to the continental showpiece, which will be held in Cameroon in 2021.
