The stage is set for a high-stakes indoor showdown today at the Kasarani Indoor Arena as Kenya hosts Namibia in the decisive return leg of the 2026 AFCON Futsal Qualifiers.
After a bruising 8-4 defeat in the first leg at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund last week, the Kenyan national futsal team, affectionately known as the Harambee Sambas, faces a mountain to climb. To keep their dream of reaching the AFCON finals in Morocco alive, the Kenyans must win by a margin of at least four goals today.
In Windhoek, Kenya actually started as the brighter side, racing into a 2-0 lead within five minutes thanks to strikes from Mike Otieno and Anas Cheik. However, the “Brave Five” of Namibia responded ruthlessly. Inspired by a clinical four-goal haul from captain Ken Salote, the Namibians exploited Kenya’s tactical lapses to secure a commanding four-goal cushion.
Kenya’s head coach, James Omondi, remains defiant despite the deficit. “It was a learning experience for our young squad playing at this level for the first time,” Omondi noted. “We lost it on tactics in the second half in Namibia, but we have corrected those errors.”
Key Players to Watch
Kenya: All eyes will be on Anas Cheik, who netted a brace in the first leg, and midfield maestro Tony Kegode. They will need to fire on all cylinders to break down a disciplined Namibian defense.
Namibia: The visitors will lean on the experience of Ken Salote and the tactical guidance of their Portuguese coach, Marco Antunes, who has made it clear they aren’t coming to Nairobi to defend their lead, but to “win again.”
For the East Africans, this match is a litmus test for the growth of futsal in the CECAFA zone. A Kenyan comeback would see them advance to the second and final round of qualification, where North African giants Libya await.
In a bid to create a “cauldron of noise,” the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has announced FREE ENTRY for all fans. The goal is to fill the 5,000-capacity Kasarani Indoor Arena to provide the “sixth man” advantage needed for a historic comeback.
Fixture: Wednesday, 28/Jan/2026
Kenya vs. Namibia (Aggregate: 4-8)
Venue: Kasarani Indoor Arena, Nairobi
Kick-off: 4:00 PM EAT
Entry: Free
