Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, began their 2025 Mapinduzi Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso at the Gombeni Stadium on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
The match showcased intense competition as both teams sought control in their opening group game.
First-Half Highlights
Harambee Stars started strongly, displaying early attacking intent to test Burkina Faso’s defense. Their persistence paid off just before halftime. In the 45+1 minute, a well-delivered free kick by Boniface Muchiri found James Kinyanjui, who calmly converted to give Kenya a 1-0 lead at the break.
Second-Half Drama
Determined to hold their advantage, Kenya made a triple substitution in the 67th minute, bringing on Darius Msagah, Chrispine Erambo, and Bajaber Mohammed for Michael Mutinda, James Kinyanjui, and Kelly Madada, respectively. The fresh legs added energy to Kenya’s gameplay.
However, Burkina Faso capitalized on a defensive lapse in the dying minutes of the match. In the 89th minute, Aboubacar Traoré struck a crucial equalizer, ensuring the spoils were shared.
Next Challenge
With the draw, Harambee Stars will now shift their focus to a highly anticipated clash against hosts Tanzania on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The team will look to build on their solid start and secure a win to strengthen their campaign in this prestigious regional tournament.
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