The Harambee Stars of Kenya will be looking to bounce back when they host Mali on Sunday in 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The West Africans are still licking their wounds after a shocking 5-0 defeat the hands of Eagles on Friday in Morocco.
For this encounter, they will want to keep their hopes alive by ensuring they retain the full three points at home come Sunday.
Coach Engin Firat’s troops dropped to third in Group E with two points from one loss and two draws thus far.
Firat remains optimistic that his charges can salvage some pride and revive their hopes of being in Qatar next year for the global football showcase.
“I want to apologise for our performance against Mali. Of course for me it was a very tough start, but on the other side I got a good lesson with the team on all the things that I did not know,” the gaffer said in pre-match interview.
“It is my fault and I have no excuse. But like I said, I do not want to make mistakes two times. We have made our analysis, talked with the players and for sure you will see a different team against Mali here at home.”
Looking at the West Africans, now occupy top spot in the group with seven points from two wins and one draw.
In their previous encounter against Kenya, Mali broke the deadlock only on the seventh minute when the defence lost ball cheaply in the area.
Same mistakes were repeated by the Harambee Stars which saw them soaking more three goals in first stanza before substitute goalkeeper helped the Eagles with an own goal in second half.
Although it will not be easy to bag a win in Nairobi, the Malians’ fighting spirit is what the Kenyans must ensure they neutralize come Sunday.
This thrilling encounter will be staged at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi and kick-off is at 13:00 (GMT).
