This archive report was first published on 18 December 2019.
On a dismal day for Kenyan football, Harambee Stars midfielder Kenneth Muguna struggled to find words to describe the team's worst defeat this year.
The shocking 4-1 loss to Eritrea in the Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup semi-finals at the StarTimes Stadium in Kampala marked a dismal end to Kenya's title defense.
"To be honest, I just do not know what happened today. We found ourselves suddenly trailing and then fought back but ran out of luck and gas. Fair play to our opponents," Muguna explained.
Kenya's title win in 2017 under coach Paul Put now hangs in the balance as the team faces a tough road to recovery.
Pre-match warnings from Eritrea captain Robel Teklemichel proved prophetic as the Red Sea boys employed a fast-paced passing game that left Kenya reeling.
Ulinzi Stars forward Oscar Wamalwa's own goal handed Eritrea the lead, and despite a late rally, Kenya's chances were all but over.
Abel Solomon and Micheal Habte Gebremesqel added to Eritrea's tally, while Teklemichel sealed the win with a decisive strike.
Kenya now awaits the loser of the final between Eritrea and either Uganda or Tanzania to determine third and fourth place in the Cecafa tournament.
