Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga is optimistic that Kenya will finish their 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a high by winning their two remaining matches.
Harambee Stars, who are out of contention to reach the final round of the qualifiers following back-to-back defeats against Mali, play away to rivals Uganda on Thursday before hosting Rwanda at the Nyayo National Stadium four days later.
A strong finish will prevent Harambee Stars from setting an unwanted record-Harambee Stars have never finished a FIFA World Cup qualifier without a win in the round-robin stage.
"Although we do not stand a chance of qualifying for the World Cup, we are going to represent Kenya. So, we have our nation to make proud."
"We are also trying to come back from the setback we suffered against Mali. We will try to be much more positive in these two encounters and finish on a high," Olunga stated.
"Every time we play against Uganda and our other neighbours, it is always a difficult encounter. They still have a chance to progress but it will not be an easy game for them. We are going there to give our best and finish on a high," Olunga added.
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat echoed his statement advising the team not to treat the matches as a mere formality.
"I want a healthy national team with a mix of experienced and young players. The team understands my objective and they have to play successful football in these last two qualifiers so that we can win," said the 51-year-old tactician.
He also noted that defender Joash Onyango, Brian Mandela, Joseph Okumu, Boniface Muchiri and Masud Juma will not be available for the two matches.
Onyango has decided to stick with his team Simba SC of Tanzania, while Mandela, Muchiri, Juma and Okumu are injured.
If Harambee Stars get a win on Thursday it will be their first win away against Uganda since a 2-1 friendly win on May 26, 1996. Kenya has drawn five times and lost four matches in nine subsequent visits.
Harambee Stars are third in Group E with two points from draws with Uganda and Rwanda as Uganda comes second with eight points. Mali leads the group with 10 points as they play away to Rwanda before hosting Uganda in Morocco.