Kenya wrapped up their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on a high note after beating Togo 2-1 in their Group G encounter played on Monday evening in Lome.
Abdallah Hassan and Masoud Juma scored in both halves to hand the Harambee Stars a winning note to their not impressive campaign in the qualifiers.
There was nothing at stake for both teams as they were playing for academic purposes but were bent on bowing out of the qualification campaign on a positive note.
Kenya missed Al-Duhail striker Michael Olunga, Simba SC defender Joash Onyango, Zesco United goalkeeper Ian Otieno, and Sofapaka midfielder Lawrence Juma after they were allegedly declared Covid-19 positive just two hours before the match.
The development forced coach Jacob Mulee to make changes ahead of the clash that was played at Stade de Kegue Stadium.
Ulinzi Stars custodian James Saruni started in goal while Clyde Senaji took Onyango’s place in defence alongside KCB’s Nahashon Alembi.
In midfield, Duke Abuya replaced Juma while Masud Juma, who captained the team, was the lone striker upfront.
Clifton Miheso could have opened the scoring in the 12th minute but the Gor Mahia ‘ winger managed to drag his effort wide of the target, after a delightful through by Duncan Otieno.
James Saruni came to his side’s rescue in the 24th minute to deny the visitors the opener, as he got down well to deny Masoud Juma from close range.
Kevin Kimani nearly opened the scoring in spectacular fashion in the 29th minute as the veteran midfielder tried to catch Yao Djemani off his line from inside his own half, but the Sparrow Hawks keeper managed to tip the effort over the bar.
Abdallah Hassan got proceedings underway on 35 minutes after firing home from Eric Ouma clever pass from the centre of the pitch.
Marouf Tchakei tried his luck from distance 10 minutes after the halftime break but the Togolese winger fired his free kick straight at Saruni, who comfortably held on.
Harambee Stars extended their lead on the 65th minute courtesy of Masoud Juma’s well taken penalty after Abdallah Hassan was brought down inside the area by a Togolese defender.
Duke Abuya should have increased the hosts lead in the 78th minute but the midfielder placed his header wide of the target from close range.
Lanti’s Akoete Eninful pulled a goal back two minutes before the end of the match after Harambee Stars defender Nahashon Alembi handled the ball inside the area.
Togo failed to trouble the Harambee Stars defence in the closing stages, as Kenya did well retain possession and frustrate their opponents.
