Harambee Stars Trio Plan Escape from War-Torn Lebanon as Explosions Rock Beirut

Three Kenyan footballers caught in the escalating conflict in Lebanon are expected to return home this Sunday, March 8, after their club granted them leave amidst growing regional instability.

Anthony Akumu, Austin Odhiambo, and striker Masoud Juma, who all play for Lebanese Premier League side Nejmeh SC, have been seeking a way back to Kenya as the security situation deteriorates.

The trio has reportedly been hearing explosions in Beirut, prompting them to request an urgent return. The political turmoil, intensified by recent military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, has brought daily life and professional sports to a standstill.

As reported by Mozzart Sport, Anthony Akumu confirmed on Tuesday that all football activities in the country have been suspended indefinitely.

Recounting the ordeal, Anthony Akumu described how their preparations for a league match were abruptly cut short.

"On Saturday, we were in the South of Beirut getting ready for a 9 PM league game," he explained. "We had our usual pre-match talk with the technical staff and went back to our rooms."

"Just two hours before kickoff, someone knocked on my door and told us to pack our bags immediately and return to Beirut. The area we were in is only a few minutes from the Israeli border," he added.

Upon their hasty return to the capital, the situation became more alarming. "Back in my room in Beirut, I heard several explosions," Akumu said.

He, along with Juma and Odhiambo, then approached the club's management to facilitate their immediate departure.

The players' efforts to find a flight out were initially unsuccessful. "We spent a lot of time on Sunday searching for available flights but couldn't find any," Akumu stated.

"The next day, we met with the club's leadership and explained our situation. They agreed it was best for us to return to Kenya."

After securing seats on a flight, the trio is now scheduled to travel via Egypt this weekend. "The earliest flight we could get is on Sunday," Akumu concluded.

"We are looking forward to rejoining our families and will wait for the situation to improve before we consider returning to Beirut."