CECAFA 2019: Kenya Coach In Buoyant Mood Ahead Of Eritrea Clash

Kenya national team head coach Francis Kimanzi is cautiously optimistic about his side’s chances in Tuesday’s semi-final against Eritrea.

Harambee Stars will take on the Red Sea Boys in Kampala knowing victory will inch them closer to retaining the Council for Eastern and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) Senior Challenge title.

The team put up a polished display in the group stage matches, winning three out of three against Tanzania, Sudan, and Zanzibar.

But Kimanzi is refusing to be caught in the web of complacency but remains confident his team can scale the hurdle.

“I was happy with not only the result but also the performance in our first three matches,” said Coach Kimanzi.

“We have had enough time for recovery and we’re now set, hopefully, we will go all the way,” he added.

However, Eritrea coach Efrem Haile has predicted a tough game and has emphasized the fact that Red Seas Boys need to take their chances if they are to advance into the final.

“We respect Kenya a lot but we are not afraid of them. We know they are a good team very strong and tactically good that is why they have won all their three games. I have watched them and I know it will not be an easy game, “the tactician said.

“They (Kenya) play a lot of long balls, they like to play switching balls while our game is on the ground. Sometimes it is difficult to play against such a team but we will plan well for them and hopefully get the win. It is a knockout game and we will give our best,” he further stated.

The winner will take on Uganda or Tanzania in the final of this year’s continental competition hosted in Uganda.