Kenya hold Egypt to a 1-1 draw in first AFCON qualifying game at Alexandre
Kenya surprised Egypt at Alexantre after holding the Pharaohs to a 1-1 draw in their first qualifying game to 2021 AFCON in Cameroon. Goals from Mohammed Kharaba for Egypt and Michael Olunga for Kenya ensured both teams share the spoils in their 20th meeting in all competitions.
Egypt were very confident when coming into today’s game against the Harambee Stars of Kenya, holding a good record against Kenya in all their previous 19 clashes. Prior to this game, Egypt had won 14 games, drew four and lost only once to Kenya.
This alone was enough reason for any Egyptian supporter to believe that the pharaohs would in no doubt white-wash Kenya at one of their favorite cities Alexandre, but the Harambee Stars showed a different side of them, holding the Egyptians to shocking 1-1 draw.
The home side struck first, but only, during the end of the first half as Kenya produced a resilient display both in attack and defense. However, most of their brilliance had come through their defensive display.
Kenya could not deny the Egyptians of goal throughout the entire first half as Mohammed Kharaba simple tap in a ball after an erroneous back pass from Eric Marcelo Ouma to give Egypt the lead on the 42’ minute.
Egypt pressed for more goals but yet again, resolute Kenya prevented the Pharaohs from scoring their second goal on the night. But thanks must go to Kenya keeper Patrick Matasi who produced some stunning saves to keep Kenya in the game.
On the 67’ minute, Kenya got the equalizer through Michael Olunga. Egypt travel to Stade Said Mohamed Cheikh to face Comoros on Monday 18th November whiles Kenya would hold a huge advantage when they welcome Togo to Kasarani Stadium.
Togo suffered a shocking 1-0 defeat at home to Comoros today.
