Goalless Start for Kenya, Zimbabwe in 2025 AFCON campaign

By Agencies

Kenya and Zimbabwe began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaigns with a goalless draw at Mandela National Stadium in Uganda on Friday.

The Group J match ended 0-0, with both teams earning a point each in their first qualifying fixture.

The game saw few chances created in the opening stages. Kenya’s Harambee Stars were forced into an early substitution when Amos Nondi replaced the injured Alphonce Omija in the 21st minute.

Zimbabwe’s Warriors increased pressure towards the end of the first half, with Khama Billiat setting up Tawanda Chirewa, whose shot was blocked by Nondi.

In the second half, Billiat continued to threaten for Zimbabwe, narrowly missing the target in the 65th minute.

Warriors captain Marshall Munetsi had another opportunity late in the game but failed to keep his shot on target. Despite these efforts, neither team managed to break the deadlock.

Both teams will return to action on Tuesday for matchday two of the qualifiers. Kenya will travel to face Namibia in South Africa, while Zimbabwe will host Cameroon in Uganda.

These matches will be crucial for both sides as they look to improve their positions in Group J.

The draw leaves Kenya and Zimbabwe level on points at the start of their qualification journey.

With tough matches ahead, both teams will aim to build on this result and push for victory in their upcoming fixtures.