Harambee Starlets assistant head coach Charles Bruno is set to miss tomorrow’s crucial WAFCON qualifiers second-leg showdown against Tunisia due to a lack of valid travel documents.
The setback has sparked criticism from football stakeholders, with former Gor Mahia treasurer Sally Bolo calling out the lack of preparedness.
“Personally, I hate to read such news. How does a national team’s technical bench member lack a valid passport on the eve of an international trip? Every technical bench member must have their travel documents in order—no excuses,” Bolo lamented.
She further emphasized that ensuring valid travel documentation is a fundamental requirement that should always be prioritized well in advance. “This kind of oversight not only disrupts the team’s plans but also reflects poorly on Kenya’s football administration,” she added.
However, some have come to Bruno’s defense. Football fan Winston Richard argued that renewing a passport, though a seemingly simple process, still has its requirements and timelines.
“Charles Bruno is a decorated national team member, having captained all national youth sides in international assignments and even the senior team under coaches Zico and Ghost. He was called to join the national women’s team technical bench and immediately applied for a renewal of his passport, which he will collect tomorrow,” Richard explained.
He further insisted that Bruno is not to blame for delays in the immigration process and that his absence in Tunisia will not be a long-term setback.
“The national team has more assignments ahead, and he will still be valuable with his passport now ready. In training, he worked closely with the defense, and we can all see how he has built a solid backline,” he noted.
Despite the explanations, Bruno’s absence could prove costly for the Starlets in their must-win fixture against Tunisia. If he fails to secure his passport in time, the Kisumu All Stars head coach will be forced to watch from the sidelines as Kenya fights for a spot in the next round of the WAFCON qualifiers.
