Kenya beat the United States of America in the opening match of the Phygital Contenders Campaign yesterday in Abu Dhabi.
Kenya managed to win by 12-10 against the super powers after the USA started in the digital 3-1 down to win 7-6 but Kenya returned the favor on the physical stage, coming from 2-0 down to win 4-3 with a draw, a penalty shootout on the physical stage decided the match.
Goalkeeper Eric Koira proved the hero, saving two penalties while Kenya converted through Nabil Asad and Ian Abura.
Team Manager Fredrick Mwabili attributed the victory to mental strength.
“Beating the favorites is not easy. Especially when you are forced to come from a two goal deficit. The boys have shown today that they are mentality monsters. It is the mental fortitude that kept us going in the tough times,” Mwabili said.
Focus now shifts to the second and decisive group game against Uzbekistan today.
The top four teams from the competition shall join 12 others in the Games of The Future set for December 18-23 in Abu Dhabi, this year