Harambee Stars’ stalwart defender Joseph Okumu will miss the team’s final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Namibia on Tuesday. The Stade de Reims center-back sustained a groin injury during Friday’s 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Peter Makoba Stadium in Polokwane City.
Head coach Engin Firat confirmed the decision to release Okumu back to his French club, Stade Reims for specialized treatment, emphasizing the need to prioritize the player’s long-term fitness. “We do not want the injury to be aggravated, and so we have allowed the player to go back to his club,” Firat explained.
Okumu’s absence marks the end of a challenging campaign for the defender, who has struggled with injuries throughout the season. He was sidelined for 39 days between September and October due to adductor pain, a setback that also affected his appearances for Stade de Reims.
Despite the injury concerns, Okumu has been a crucial figure for Harambee Stars in the qualifiers. He captained the team in their opening two Group J fixtures against Zimbabwe and Namibia in the absence of regular skipper Michael Olunga, helping Kenya secure four points.
Firat’s Comment on Replacement
Coach Firat has opted not to call up a replacement for the injured Okumu, citing the dead-rubber nature of the match. “We shall do with what we have since it is just one match remaining in this campaign, and it is a good opportunity to give others that chance,” Firat said.
Kenya has already been eliminated from the race for the 2025 AFCON following their draw against Zimbabwe, which mathematically ruled out their qualification chances.
A Season Marred by Injuries For Joseph Okumu
Okumu’s groin injury adds to a season plagued by fitness issues. Before joining the national team, he had missed three consecutive matches for Stade de Reims. The former Chemelil Sugar defender has struggled to maintain consistent game time this season, further impacting both his club and national team contributions.
As Harambee Stars prepare to face Namibia, Okumu’s absence opens opportunities for other defenders to step up in what will be a campaign-ending fixture for Kenya.