• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 4 days ago

Harambee Stars seal third place finish at FIFA Series 2026

Harambee Stars wrapped up the FIFA Series 2026 campaign in style, beating Grenada 3-0 in Kigali, Rwanda on Monday to secure a third-place finish and restore pride after a tough semifinal outing.

Kenya delivered a confident and composed performance at Amahoro Stadium, with Austine Odhiambo, Ryan Ogam, and a late deflected effort involving Zech Obiero ensuring the national team ended the tournament on a high note.

From the first whistle, Benni McCarthy’s side showed clear intent, pressing forward and creating early chances. Their efforts paid off in the 12th minute when Odhiambo reacted quickest to slot home after Ogam’s powerful strike was spilled by Grenada goalkeeper Trishawn Malcom.

Ogam, who has been in fine form, doubled Kenya’s lead moments later with a well-taken finish from a set-piece routine, marking his eighth goal for the national team and underlining his growing influence in the squad.

The Stars continued to dominate proceedings, with Odhiambo coming close to adding a second, only to be denied by the crossbar in an entertaining first half.

Grenada attempted to respond after the break, but Kenya remained solid and disciplined despite several changes made by McCarthy to give more players a run.

The third goal eventually came in the 80th minute when substitute Zech Obiero fired in a low shot that deflected off Grenada’s Vijay Valcin for an own goal, sealing a convincing win for the East Africans.

The victory not only handed Kenya third place in the mini-tournament but also provided a timely boost as the team looks to climb up the FIFA rankings.

More importantly, the performance highlighted the team’s resilience and attacking quality, with emerging talents like Ogam and Obiero stepping up on the international stage.

After a disappointing exit against Estonia, Harambee Stars responded in emphatic fashion a statement win that signals promise and progress under coach Benni McCarthy.