Harambee Stars displayed determination, resilience, and a powerful fighting spirit on Friday night, coming from behind, twice, to secure a 2-2 draw against South Africa in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.
The high-stakes game saw Bafana Bafana take an early lead in the ninth minute after Kenyan defender Amos Wanjala’s own goal. Despite the early setback, the Stars absorbed the pressure from the hosts, gradually pulling up their socks. It paid off just before halftime when Captain Michael Olunga leveled the scores from penalty spot after a South African handball in the box.
Second half delivered matching drama with South Africa reclaiming advantage in the 77th minute through a strike by Relebohile Mofokeng. With time running out, Kenya’s coach Benni McCarthy turned to his bench, introducing Ryan Ogam. The substitution proved to be a masterclass, as deep into stoppage time, Ogam unleashed a brilliant left-footed strike to rescue a crucial point for Kenya.
Beyond the vital away point, the match marked a historic milestone for Kenyan football. By converting his first-half penalty, Olunga etched his name deeper into the record books, netting his 35th international goal. The strike moves him one goal clear of former international talisman Dennis Oliech (34) and ties him with the legendary William “Chege”
