Kenya and Zimbabwe played out a goalless draw in their opening match of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Uganda on Friday.
The Harambee Stars began their quest to qualify for the competition in Morocco with the stalemate in a tightly contested encounter Group J game in Kampala.
Despite both teams creating several chances, neither could find the breakthrough.
Kenya’s coach, Engin Firat, had to contend with multiple injuries in his squad, which saw him bench regular goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, opting for Bryne Omondi between the posts.
Zimbabwe fielded a strong lineup featuring stars Jordan Zemura and Khama Billiat. Kenya, however, started the game brightly, controlling the early exchanges.
Forward Samuel Abuya squandered two good opportunities, while defender David Odhiambo narrowly missed the target with a powerful strike.
Despite the attacking intent from both sides, the lack of clinical finishing left the scoreline unchanged at the final whistle.
Kenya will face Namibia in their next fixture, while Zimbabwe prepare to take on Cameroon, with both teams still seeking their first win in the qualifying campaign.