Harambee Stars vs Chad: Brian Mandela Breaks Silence on What Went Wrong in First Encounter

Brian Mandela

Harambee Stars vs Chad: Brian Mandela Breaks Silence on What Went Wrong in First Encounter

Abigael Wafula 14:30 - 10.06.2025

Brian Mandela has reflected on Harambee Stars' draw against Chad and expressed confidence in a stronger showing in the next match.

Harambee Stars defender Brian Mandela has opened up about what went wrong in their first international friendly against Chad on Saturday and how they plan on bouncing back.

Harambee Stars are set to face Chad in their second international friendly on Tuesday night, this time around, hoping to make a mark and secure the win.

In their opening match, the players struggled to capitalise on their opportunities, resulting in a goalless draw.

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Fans expected Kenya to dominate the match since they have more experience compared to Chad, who are ranked 177th. Harambee Stars are ranked 111th in the FIFA rankings.

Brian Mandela: We Lacked Composure

Brian Mandela
Brian Onyango Mandela. Photo/Stellenbosch FC

The former Mamelodi Sundowns defender, speaking to FKF Media, admitted that they did not give their all in the match.

He promised that going into the second match, Harambee Stars will be out to change their mentality and be confident as needed to secure the win and boost their FIFA rankings.

Brian Mandela pointed out that international matches, whether a friendly or not, do not give players room for mistakes, adding that they have to be keen going forward.

“You know it’s international, so it’s on a different level…we lacked composure upfront, and that’s what we worked on today because it’s really important in international matches because you won’t get a lot of chances in such matches. You bury two to three chances, and then the game needs to bury them, and then the game is over,” Brian Mandela shared.

Brian Mandela on the Rising Stars

Harambee Stars defender Brian Mandela
Kenyan defender Brian Mandela when he was unveiled by Stellenbosch FC. Photo: Stellenbosch FC

Brian Mandela also welcomed the youngsters who have received their first call-ups, noting that he will always be there to offer guidance.

The Stellenbosch defender pointed out that he was once there and was given all the support needed, and it is now his turn to mentor the young ones.

“I always encourage them to feel free and feel at home because even me, when I was younger, I was helped, and it’s my time to help the young ones,” he said.

“They are okay and not under pressure, and you know Kenyans are loving people, so they are very free and composed.”

Harambee Stars will have a point to prove in their second match against Chad and Brian Mandela believes all issues have been solved ahead of the encounter.