In the absence of Maritzburg United defender Brian Mandela, Gor Mahia defender Harun Shakava will partner Zesco United’s David ‘Calabar” Owino at the heart of Kenyan defense when they take on Cape Verde today (Friday 13) in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier at Nyayo Stadium.

Shakava who has had a wonderful 2015 season with the Kenyan Champions played the first leg of the preliminaries away to Mauritius where he scored a goal in the 5-2 whitewashing of the Islanders but he did not feature in the return leg in Nairobi.

In goal, Boniface Oluoch also of Gor Mahia will retain the jersey for the third time in a row as Harambee Stars first choice keeper Arnold Origi of Lillestrom, Norway did not come for the match.

Bonny has been a revelation at K’Ogalo since signing for the Top8 champions early this year from Tusker FC where he was largely unused- his composure between the sticks is unmatched,making him the favorite for a high pressure game like today’s.He managed to keep a record 14 clean sheets in the just concluded league.

Skipper Victor Wanyama of Southampton FC will command the middle of the pack assisted by Johanna Omollo and Teddy Akumu as mercurial Michael Olunga leads the goal hunt.

Kenya XI:

Boniface Oluoch, Edwin  Wafula, David “Calabar” Owino ,Harun Shakava,Teddy Alkumu, Victor Wanyama, Omar Mbongi ,Cliffton Miheso,Kevin Kimani,Johanna Omollo, Micheal Olunga.

KO 4PM.

@bonfaceosano

Bonface Osano

African Football Writer contributing @Soka25east | Commentator; appeared on @MySoccerAfrica, @KweseSports, @ntvkenya, others | Keen follower of African Football. E-mail: bonfaceosano@gmail.com