John Avire Scores Superb Free Kick As Harambee Stars Take Down Namibia In AFCON Qualifier

• Harambee Stars registered an incredible 2-1 win over Namibia in their second 2025 AFCON qualifier
• Kenya opened the scoring in the 57th minute courtesy of John Avire, who scored a spectacular free-kick
• Engin Firat's side are looking to reach their first AFCON tournament since 2019 and their third in 30 years

The Kenya national football team produced a resilient performance to beat Namibia 2-0 in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in South Africa.

Harambee Stars survived wave after wave of Namibian attacks, especially in the first half, thanks to last-ditch defending to secure their first win.

Kenya came into the match after a frustrating 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in Uganda and were determined not to lose.

The Southern African nation were on top in the first half, comfortably playing through Kenya's midfield.

They carved out golden opportunities but finishing and Kenya's superb defending stopped them from winning.

Kenya were second best for most of the first half and early in the second half before they opened the scoring.

Avire shoots past goalkeeper with free-kick

Goalkeeper Bryne Omondi and defenders Joseph Akumu and Sylvester Owino were on top form during the game.

In the 57th minute, Avire, who started after starting from the bench, thumped a spectacular free-kick past Lloyd Junior Kazapua. Duke Abuya added a second one in the 77th minute after a swift counter-attack.

Deon Hotto scored a consolation goal for Namibia in injury time. Engin Firat's team now has four points in Group J, a positive start to the qualifying campaign.

Engin Firat's side will face Cameroon in back-to-back matches next month looking to consolidate their spot in the table. They drew 0-0 with Zimbabwe on Friday, per Nation Sports.

Mieno backs Kenya to reach AFCON

TUKO.co.ke earlier reported that former Gor Mahia midfielder Humphrey Mieno backed Kenya to reach the 2025 AFCON.

Mieno said Kenya will be in a great position after the Namibia win. He felt the Zimbabwe performance could be better, and it was in South Africa.

Mulee on Harambee Stars' AFCON chances

TUKO.co.ke earlier reported that Jacob 'Ghost' Mulee discussed Kenya's chances of reaching the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, which will be hosted by Morocco.

The former Harambee Stars coach, who led the team at the 2004 tournament, believes they have good squad players who can help them qualify.