Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has echoed head coach Benni McCarthy’s sentiments, expressing his displeasure with Burundi’s overly physical style of play during Kenya’s hard-fought 1-0 victory in Bujumbura on Thursday.
Kenya came into the World Cup qualifier aiming to maintain their strong form, but the contest quickly turned into a bruising encounter. Substitute Ryan Ogam scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute, securing a crucial win for the visitors. However, the game was marred by aggressive challenges and questionable tackles that left several Kenyan players shaken, most notably goalkeeper Brian Bwire, who was stretchered off just five minutes into the match.
Bwire suffered a head injury after Burundi striker Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana recklessly lunged into him. Although the Burundian forward was shown a straight red card, the damage was already done, with the Harambee Stars forced into an early change. The incident set the tone for what became a tense and physically draining contest on the artificial turf of the Intwari Stadium.
Speaking after the match, Olunga admitted that while the win was important, the manner in which it was achieved left little room for joy. “It was a very difficult game to play, especially under the conditions. The pitch, the temperatures—it was not easy,” the striker said. “We knew it was going to be a physical game and tried to contain them as much as possible.”
Olunga further criticized Burundi’s style, suggesting their approach crossed the line of acceptable physical play. “I believe that was their tactic, and yes, physicality is allowed in football but not aggressive physicality. Every challenge they complained to the referee, every loose ball they fought for—it was not a game to enjoy,” he added. “But we are happy with the three points and the 1-0 result.”
The Al-Arabi forward, who played 81 minutes before being substituted for Marvin Nabwire, endured a frustrating night with few scoring opportunities. Still, his leadership on the pitch helped steady the team amid Burundi’s relentless challenges.
Kenya’s focus now shifts to their final qualifier on Tuesday against African champions Ivory Coast, a test that will demand both composure and resilience. Olunga will be hoping for a smoother match and a positive update on Bwire’s recovery as the Harambee Stars look to finish their qualifying campaign on a high.
