Harambee Stars forward Job Ochieng has assured fans that Kenya will deliver a different performance when they face Seychelles in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier. The Real Sociedad attacker believes the team has already moved on from their 3-1 defeat against The Gambia and is fully focused on securing maximum points in the next fixture.
Kenya’s World Cup qualifying campaign suffered a setback after the loss in Banjul, but Ochieng insists there were positives to take from the match. He highlighted the team’s fighting spirit and determination, even though the final scoreline did not favor them. According to him, the defeat has only strengthened the squad’s resolve to respond with a much-improved display.
“We didn’t win, but the spirit within the team was clear. Everyone kept pushing until the final whistle, and that’s something we want to build on. Now the focus is on Seychelles, and I strongly believe we will get it right this time,” Ochieng said.
Kenya will be aiming to replicate the dominant performance they displayed against Seychelles in November 2023, when they secured a convincing 5-0 victory in Abidjan. In that encounter, Michael Olunga struck twice, with additional goals from Masoud Juma, Benson Omala, and Rooney Onyango. That result remains a major source of confidence heading into this rematch.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy recently handed Ochieng his first-ever senior call-up following his bright start to the season in Spain. The winger has already scored in La Liga and brings the speed, creativity, and direct attacking threat that McCarthy wants in wide areas. The coach emphasized that Ochieng’s qualities are exactly what Kenya needs to strengthen their attacking options.
With both players and coaches determined to bounce back, the Harambee Stars are targeting nothing less than three points against Seychelles. Ochieng believes the blend of experienced players and fresh talent will be key in ensuring Kenya maintains its push for World Cup qualification.
All eyes will now be on whether the team can transform lessons learned from the Gambia loss into a commanding performance when they step onto the pitch against Seychelles.
