The Rooney factor & more in Kenya vs Tanzania

Kenyan striker Michael Olunga (Courtesy of YouTube) 

Just before the KENTAN match started, I posted a video of England's Wayne Rooney's popular long shot goal predicting that a similar goal was definitely going to feature. Well, minutes into the game, it wasn't a replica of Rooney's long shot goal that was scored but history still repeated itselefu through Olunga's bicycle kick. Bottom line? My prediction wasn't too far from reality. Perhaps I'm your African Cup octopus after all.

How the rain started beating us

In my observation, the main cause of the first unexpected goal is the very fact that it was unexpected. Team Kenya went in all puffed up knowing that they were playing against a weaker team and there was no way they were going home without thrashing them. Unfortunately for ke, bongo fellas didn't come to play but to pounce on every slight opportunity to score! It's my general assumption that they knew too well the general perception of kenyan fans and even more importantly the attitude of the players. And just like that the football game turned into a mind game as TZ twisted the plot and stung when we least anticipated. If your phone has ever been snatched you understand this feeling.  The principle that the Taifa Stars were riding on is; when you play against a truly or purported stronger team, make the greatest attempt to score in the starting minutes when their guard is low. Defend hard and counter attack sharp and fast!

Much needed win

Considering the current diplomatic wrangles brought about by our hit making legislator, I wouldn't say it was a deserved victory for Kenya, rather a needed one. We also need a new entrant into the prime international football scene and grow past the Wanyamas and Marigas.
Fast forward to a few weeks or months later, Olunga will probably be playing in the premier league or serie a or la liga coupled by several endorsement deals. Not to mean that other leagues don't matter as much but the above mentioned put a player on the spotlight which is what I would wish for Olunga. When all is said and done, the most important thing is to accept the results and move on with life. I am happy to note that this is the thinking that Taifa Stars and their fans appear to generally share. Congratulations to Harambee Stars!