With three Mariners representing their countries over the international break, let’s take a look at how Clarke Oduor, Géza Dávid Turi and Jude Soonsup-Bell got on during their time away from Blundell Park.
Clarke Oduor was part of the Kenya squad that travelled to Rwanda to compete in the FIFA Series, with the Harambee Stars finishing the tournament on a high by claiming third place following a convincing 3-0 victory over Grenada.
Kenya had narrowly missed out on a place in the final after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Estonia earlier in the series. The sides had played out a 1-1 draw in normal time, forcing a shootout where Estonia edged the contest 5-4. Despite the disappointment, Oduor played his part across the tournament as the Harambee Stars looked to build momentum under head coach Benni McCarthy.
The third-place play-off saw Kenya produce one of their most complete performances of the competition. Austine Odhiambo opened the scoring inside the first 12 minutes before Ryan Ogam doubled the lead shortly afterwards. Zech Obiero then wrapped up the victory late on to secure a strong finish to the series.
For Oduor, the tournament marked a meaningful return to the national team set-up after several years away. Speaking after the campaign, our #29 spoke about the pride of representing Kenya once again and his determination to cement a long-term role in the squad as the nation looks ahead to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which they will co-host.
Géza Dávid Turi was also in international action, representing the Faroe Islands in an international friendly against San Marino.
The Faroe Islands claimed a 2-1 victory in Serravalle, recovering from an early setback after San Marino had taken the lead in the 21st minute. Turi featured in midfield as the visitors responded strongly, drawing level just before the break through Jákup Andreasen.
Árni Frederiksberg’s second-half strike ultimately proved decisive as the Faroe Islands completed the turnaround to secure all three points. Turi played his part in a competitive midfield display before being substituted in stoppage time late in the second half.
Jude Soonsup-Bell was also part of a significant international moment, featuring for Thailand as they secured qualification for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.
Thailand sealed their place at the tournament with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Turkmenistan in a decisive Group D clash at the Rajamangala National Stadium. The two sides had gone into the match level on points, meaning only a win would be enough for the hosts to finish top of the group and secure qualification.
The home side made the perfect start when Suphanan Bureerat headed them into the lead in the 15th minute, but Turkmenistan responded after the break to level the scores and set up a tense finale in Bangkok.
With the match heading towards its closing stages, Thailand continued to push forward in search of the goal that would send them through. The decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute when Manuel Bihr rose highest from a corner to head home the winner and spark celebrations among the home crowd.
Our #10 featured during the crucial victory as the War Elephants secured top spot in Group D with 15 points, booking their place at the 2027 tournament in Saudi Arabia.
All three Mariners now return to North East Lincolnshire and rejoin David Artell’s squad as preparations continue for our return to Sky Bet League Two action.
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