ANTALYA, TURKEY – Kenya's Harambee Stars were defeated 1-0 by Equatorial Guinea in an international friendly on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Emir Complex Stadium in Antalya, Turkey. A first-half penalty was the decisive factor in a match where Kenya created numerous opportunities but failed to convert, raising questions about the team's offensive sharpness under head coach Benni McCarthy. The match kicked off at 6:00 PM EAT (3:00 PM UTC).

The solitary goal of the contest came in the 44th minute from striker Jose Miranda. Harambee Stars defender Rooney Onyango was penalized for a foul on Miranda inside the penalty area, and the Kalamata FC forward made no mistake from the spot, sending goalkeeper Byrne Omondi the wrong way to give the Nzalang Nacional the lead just before the halftime break.

The result marks a setback for McCarthy's squad, which is using a series of high-profile friendlies to build a formidable team for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host. For Equatorial Guinea, ranked 99th in the world by FIFA as of October 2025, the victory serves as a crucial part of their preparations for the upcoming 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Kenya is currently ranked 109th.

A Tale of Missed Opportunities

Despite the loss, Kenya started the match as the more dominant side, pressing high and creating several clear-cut chances in the first half. The attacking duo of Ryan Ogam and Jonah Ayunga were active early on, but failed to find the clinical finish required. Ayunga had a notable opportunity in the 13th minute, but his shot was saved, and later had a goal disallowed for offside in the 18th minute. Boniface Muchiri also went wide with a significant chance in the 30th minute. This inability to capitalize on periods of dominance proved costly and remains a key area of concern for the Kenyan technical bench.

In the second half, Coach McCarthy made several substitutions in an attempt to inject fresh energy and find an equalizer. Austin Odhiambo and Ovella Ochieng were introduced in the 70th minute, followed by Shariff Musa and Alphonce Omija. Teenage sensation Aldrine Kibet also earned his senior team debut. Despite these changes and enjoying the lion's share of possession, the Harambee Stars struggled to break down a disciplined and compact Equatoguinean defense. Odhiambo had one of the best chances to level the score in the 78th minute but sent his shot over the bar.

Tactical Lineups and Team News

Head coach Benni McCarthy opted for a 4-4-2 formation, handing a senior team debut to Nairobi United youngster Kevin Otiende at left-back. The starting lineup included Byrne Omondi in goal, with a defense of Rooney Onyango, Michael Kibwage, and Sylvester Owino. The midfield was marshaled by captain Duke Abuya, Marvin Nabwire, William Lenkupae, and Boniface Muchiri, with Ryan Ogam and Jonah Ayunga leading the attack.

Equatorial Guinea, under the guidance of caretaker coach Guillermo Ganet, fielded an experienced side. The team has been navigating a turbulent period following the dismissal of former coach Juan Micha Obiang in October after a player strike. This victory in Turkey provides a much-needed boost as they finalize their squad for the continental showpiece.

Looking Ahead: Senegal Test Awaits

The match against Equatorial Guinea was the first of two friendlies for the Harambee Stars during the November FIFA international window. The team will now shift its focus to a challenging encounter against the 2021 African champions, Senegal, on Tuesday, November 18, at the same venue. These matches are integral to McCarthy's long-term strategy of testing new players and refining tactics ahead of AFCON 2027.

Post-match reactions from Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy and Equatorial Guinea caretaker coach Guillermo Ganet were not immediately available. FURTHER INVESTIGATION REQUIRED.