Harambee Stars Midfielder on How Friendly Against Sadio Mane's Senegal Will Improve Kenya
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Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma has expressed confidence about the international friendlies, viewing the matches against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal as a vital learning opportunity for the Kenyan squad.
Harambee Stars faced Equatorial Guinea on Friday at the Emir Complex, losing 1-0 and will be up against Sadio Mane's Senegal on November 18 at the Mardan Stadium in Antalya, Turkey.
Both opponents are preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), presenting a significant challenge for Harambee Stars.
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Timothy Ouma: These Games Will Teach Us A Lot
“I think these games will teach us a lot. Playing against strong opponents like Equatorial Guinea and Senegal is always a test, but it’s also a chance to learn,” Timothy Ouma stated as quoted by The Star.
“These friendlies are perfect for us to measure ourselves. It’s not just about winning, but understanding how to compete at the highest level.”
Timothy Ouma believes this competitive environment will only strengthen the team. “When everyone is pushing each other, the team becomes stronger. That’s how we grow,” he commented. “The coach wants us to take risks, express ourselves, and learn from these challenges. That’s exactly what we need.”
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Despite the formidable opposition, Timothy Ouma remains optimistic. “Playing against world-class players is always tough, but it’s also inspiring. We have to rise to the challenge,” he concluded.
“We want to compete, we want to win, but most importantly, we want to improve. That’s what these friendlies are about.”
Timothy Ouma Reflects on His Journey From the Local League to Playing Abroad
Timothy Ouma, who has enjoyed a swift rise from the local leagues to European football, believes the fixtures will push both the seasoned and younger players in the squad.
His journey began at Nairobi City Stars in 2020 after graduating from Laiser Hill Academy, leading to a transfer to Slavia Prague in February 2025 and a subsequent loan to Lech Poznań.
“My journey from City Stars to Europe has been incredible. Every game has been a lesson,” he reflected. “Each club has taught me something different, from tactics to mental toughness.”
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Having earned his first national team call-up in 2021, Timothy Ouma has become a regular fixture for Harambee Stars.
“These games against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal are crucial for us. We want to show that Kenyan players can compete with the best,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, Harambee Stars assistant coach Vasili Manousakis echoed Timothy Ouma's sentiments, stressing the developmental focus of the tour.
“Yes, two very strong opponents that are preparing for AFCON, so we definitely have our work cut out for us. While they focus on AFCON, we focus on the growth of a new crop of players,” Manousakis explained.
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Coach Benni McCarthy has selected a largely inexperienced squad, blending promising young talent from the SportPesa League with those playing abroad.
Vasili Manousakis noted that the increased competition for places is a positive sign for the team's future.
“There are so many good local players performing week in and week out. It’s a selection headache, but that’s a good problem to have,” he said.
Timothy Ouma sees the friendlies against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal as a valuable opportunity for Harambee Stars to grow and test themselves against top-level competition while building a stronger, more competitive squad for the future.