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It was a name. Really, it was extra of a request. A plea.
Minutes after Kenya held Egypt to a 1-1 draw of their second final Group G match of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at Kasarani Stadium, Egyptian Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah sauntered into the Harambee Stars altering room.
No, he wasn’t right here to reprimand any of the Stars boys for having shoved him of their match. The Pharaoh’s offspring was right here to have a chat with the nationwide crew, extra so, Kenneth Muguna.
Exchanging sweat-soaked jerseys by gamers after a match has turn out to be a norm on this planet of soccer. And on March 25, it was Muguna’s likelihood to stroll house with a memorable present.
After phrases of knowledge, Mo Salah introduced the Gor Mahia midfield kingpin with a white quantity 10 jersey in appreciation of his sensible efficiency in opposition to the Egyptians.
Harambee Stars might need didn’t qualify for subsequent yr’s continental match in Cameroon, however the Gor Mahia man undoubtedly has one thing higher to recollect their not-so-impressive qualification marketing campaign.
“I’ve at all times dreamt of assembly among the greatest gamers on this planet, however for me, Salah is simply particular. He’s not solely probably the greatest gamers in Africa, however the world. It was actually wonderful to have a one-on-one chat with him,” stated Muguna.
Kenya completed third within the group with seven factors, 5 behind group winners Egypt.
Muguna, 25, was among the many greatest performers within the new-look Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee’s aspect in opposition to the star-studded Pharaohs.
And in keeping with Soccer Kenya Federation (FKF) president Nick Mwendwa, the two-time English Premier League golden boot winner described Muguna as a ‘prime and high quality’ participant.
“Mo Salah was happy with our efficiency in opposition to Egypt. He advised the boys they have been unfortunate and that they actually deserved to win that recreation. However that’s the nature of soccer,” Mwendwa advised Customary Sports activities on what transpired within the dressing room that evening.
“Salah had truly introduced Muguna his jersey. He got here into the dressing room to handed over the jersey to him. In his personal phrases, Salah advised him he had performed in opposition to many nice midfielders on this planet however he felt Muguna is on one other degree.”
“If a participant of Salah standing can inform Muguna such encouraging phrases, what can we Kenyans inform him? I feel we simply have to preserve Muguna motivated and attempt to construct a powerful crew round him to allow him to succeed in the highest degree. So, it isn’t incorrect for Kenyans to dream that Qatar 2022 is feasible.”
Muguna, who missed Kenya’s 2-1 away victory over Togo of their remaining qualifier with a knee damage, posted a photograph on his Fb web page on Monday whereas in a fitness center carrying Salah’s white jersey.
“I’ve worn the jersey as soon as, whereas within the fitness center. I’m planning to take it to my mother and father within the village. I need it to be framed.”
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