Michael Olunga backed to continue goal scoring spree after ending goal drought for Harambee Stars

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FOOTBALL Michael Olunga backed to continue goal scoring spree after ending goal drought for Harambee Stars

Joel Omotto 21:37 - 21.11.2023

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has been tipped to maintain his scoring touch for the national team after ending his six-game goal drought on Monday

Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee believes Michael Olunga will now go a goal scoring spree for the national team after ending his six-game drought on Monday.

Olunga scored Kenya’s opening two goals in as many minutes as they thrashed Seychelles 5-0 in their second match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

It was the first time the Al Duhail striker was scoring for the national team since March this year when he found the target in Kenya’s 2-1 loss to Iran.

“I am happy Olunga scored two goals, the jinx that he had has been broken so watch this space,” said Mulee.

“I know people talk about selfishness and wastefulness but it is because everyone was eager to score coming from a loss.”

Olunga has been the subject of criticism from a section of fans over his failure to replicate his scintillating club form in the national team.

The striker has missed clear chances in games against Qatar, Russia and Gabon and also wasted others against Seychelles, leading to calls for him to be dropped.

Mulee, however, feels those making those calls do it out of ignorance since Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has kept faith with him due to what he brings to the team.

“The team of fans never wins and loses. Firat knows better,” added Mulee. “Kenyans talk like they are coming from the school of coaching. We should respect the coaching profession because it is the most disrespected.”

“He brings a lot to the team and his contribution also off the pitch is huge. He has a big responsibility as the captain leading the other players. Criticism does not affect him, he can take heat on ice because he is mature enough,” said Mulee.

Mulee knows Olunga well having taken him through the ranks at Liberty Professionals as a kid. He also coached the striker in the national team, during his most recent sting with Harambee Stars between 2020 and 2021.

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