In a closely fought match at the Azad Stadium in Tehran on Tuesday night, Harambee Stars suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of hosts Iran.
The winning goal was scored late in the game by Ramin Razaeian, who capitalized on a mistake by Kenyan goalkeeper Patrick Matasi.
Despite this unfortunate incident, Matasi had an overall impressive performance in the game.
Captain Michael Olunga had given Kenya the lead early in the second half, but Mohammad Mohebi equalized for Iran in the 76th minute. Iran dominated the game from the outset, cheered on by the home crowd. However, the Kenyan team defended resolutely and managed to withstand the pressure.
Matasi was kept busy throughout the game, as the Iranian forwards launched a series of attacks.
The Police FC goalkeeper made several crucial saves, including a spectacular stop from Shahriyar Moghanlou in the 12th minute. Matasi also demonstrated his skill in dealing with high-corner balls, which the Iranians frequently delivered from the right side.
The Harambee Stars struggled to find their footing in the early stages of the match, but gradually gained momentum towards the end of the first half.
Olunga and Masoud Juma were the most visible players for Kenya, with Olunga blasting a shot over the bar from outside the box, and Juma heading straight at the Iranian keeper.
Six minutes into the second half, Olunga broke through the Iranian defence and scored a well-placed shot to put Kenya ahead. However, this only served to spur the hosts into action. Iran responded with renewed vigour, and their efforts paid off when Mohebi scored from Razaeian’s free-kick. Matasi’s misplaced positioning allowed the ball to slip past him into the net.
The Iranians continued to press forward and scored the winning goal in the 86th minute, with Razaeian running from the left and firing a low ball that Matasi failed to stop despite having the advantage of a tight angle.
This match was Kenya’s first in over a year, following their suspension by FIFA from international football from February 24 to November 27 last year due to government interference.
Despite the loss, the Harambee Stars put up a valiant fight against a strong opponent and showed promising signs for the future.
Kenya’s Starting XI
Patrick Matasi (GK), Eric Ouma, Brian Mandela, Joseph Okumu, Amos Nondi, Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Duke Abuya, Victor Omune, Masud Juma, Michael Olunga.
Substitutes
Ian Otieno, Byrne Odhiambo, Johnstone Omurwa, David Ochieng, Daniel Anyembe, Daniel Sakari, Abud Omar, Alpha Onyango, Kenneth Muguna, Abdallah Hasann, Wilkims Ochieng, Elvis Rupia, Alfred Scriven.
