Kenya beat Chinese Taipei by 4 goals without a reply to set up an Intercontinental Cup final against hosts India at the Mumbai Football Arena.
It was by far Kenya’s most complete performance since the turn of the decade and much credit is to be given to tactician Sebastien Migne for completely transforming the fortunes of the national team.
They now play with style and identity as a side that can compete for the biggest trophies at the highest level or better still trouble the world beaters.
Three things stood out during the proceedings in which all four goals were scored in the second half after a goalless yet mouth-watering opening half.
The restart saw the likes of Jockins Atudo[2], Dennis Odhiambo and Timothy Otieno all get on the scoresheet
1. The Kenyan attack is organized
The Kenyan strike force was so organized against a sorry Taipei defence that acted spectator to most of the goals scored. It was a match in which Kenya started with an intent to attack and attacked for the entire 90.
The fact that Kenya were not that clinical in front of goal meant the score stayed respectable and even finished goalless in the opening half. It could have been worse.
2. Kenya plays with identity under Migne
Kenya are playing with a form of identity under Belgian Coach Sebastien Migne. The passing and every touch on the ball from the boys is a reflection of the style that Migne has instilled in them in the short period of time that he has been in charge.
It is evident that the tactician fancies a possession-based game and high pressing when without the ball. The passing and the high pressing caught the Asian side out of context and allowed chunks of space in between them for Kenya to exploit. This tactic was widely utilized after the restart.
3. The boys have learnt lessons
After two lackluster performances against New Zealand and hosts India, it is true that Kenya learnt their lessons and improved in the weak areas coming into this match.
After being outplayed by India, Kenya came back looking like a refurbished side and almost completely different from the side that lost to the hosts.
Only one change was made to the side to fix problematic departments on the pitch. Its amazing how fast they were able to learn and correct on the mistakes.
On Sunday, Kenya play hosts India in the final and perhaps we will all see another complete performance in the emblem of the famous 4-0 win. The trophy should be brought home.