Kenya were held to a frustrating goalless draw in their opening AFCON 2025 Group J qualifier, played at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, on Friday.

Stars, playing as the hosts, dominated possession, especially in the first half, as the visitors sat back and defended almost effortlessly.

Coach Engin Firat’s side faced an early setback after Gor Mahia defender Alphonce Omija got injured and had to be replaced by Amos Nondi.

Despite dominating possession in the first half, Zimbabwe created the better chances. Desperate defending denied Udinese FC midfielder Jordan Zemura in the 27th minute after a dangerous move initiated by Khama Billiat from the left.

Earlier, Eric “Marcelo” Ouma’s cross went begging in the 25th minute, while goalkeeper Byrne Omondi was alert to parry Prince Dube’s shot in the 41st minute at the other end.

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Stars intensified their efforts in the second half, winning back-to-back corners that failed to yield a breakthrough. Marcelo impressed with a strong run into the box from the left in the 53rd minute, but his penalty appeals were waved away by the Senegalese referee.

Zimbabwe nearly took the lead in the 60th minute when Khama Billiat’s curling shot, set up by Prince Dube, sailed just over the crossbar.

Kenya’s best chance came in the 80th minute when Marcelo received a piercing pass from Austin Odhiambo, but Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi reacted quickly to save his shot.

Kenya will now travel to Johannesburg for their next game against Namibia, who face Cameroon later today.