Kenya’s Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has revealed a meticulously crafted 24-man squad as they gear up for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast.
This roster showcases a dynamic blend of standouts from the recent CHAN 2024 tournament, promising debutants, and seasoned foreign-based players, all aimed at closing out their qualifying journey with a strong performance.
As the team prepares for its final two away fixtures, McCarthy remains optimistic despite the reality of a qualification spot that slipped out of reach. “We want to conclude our campaign on a high note,” he stated, reflecting a competitive spirit and a forward-thinking approach to team selection.
Harambee Stars Captain Michael Olunga
At the helm of the squad is the influential captain, Michael Olunga, known for his goal-scoring prowess and ability to lead from the front. He will be supported by fellow strikers Ryan Ogam and debutant Lawrence Okoth, a promising young talent who has made waves with the Kenya U20 squad. Okoth’s inclusion represents McCarthy’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of footballers.
A standout addition to the squad is English-based defender Vincent Harper, who makes a much-awaited return after his first call-up in 2023 during a friendly against Russia in Turkey, although he did not feature in that match. Additionally, Lawrence Ouma is set to mark his senior debut, bringing fresh energy to the team.
Harper will join an impressive lineup of foreign-based players, including goalkeeper Brian Bwire from Polokwane City and defender Collins Sichenje from Vojvodina, as well as winger Job Ochieng from Real Sociedad B. The midfield will see familiar faces such as Duke Abuya and Timothy Ouma, who are expected to provide a perfect mix of creativity and tenacity.
Rambok Ryan Wesley Ogam
A significant aspect of McCarthy’s selection strategy is the retention of a substantial core from the squad that made headlines during the CHAN tournament, where they remarkably reached the quarterfinals after emerging from a daunting group.
Notably, 13 players from that successful campaign will don the national colors once again, bringing with them a wealth of experience and confidence as they step onto the international stage.
The goalkeeping department features Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, and Brian Bwire, while a solid defensive line includes Abud Omar, Daniel Sakari, Sylvester Owino, and Alphonce Omija, all integral to a backline that has shown resilience and strength in previous games.
Sylvester Owino Ochino
As the national team gears up for these pivotal matches, fans and supporters alike are looking forward to seeing how this blend of youth and experience will play out. With a squad that brims with potential and a vision toward the future, the Harambee Stars are poised to make a strong statement on the road to the World Cup.
Squad Overview:
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Brian Bwire
Defenders: Manzur Suleiman, Vincent Harper, Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Collins Sichenje, Michael Kibwage, Ronney Onyango, Abud Omar, Daniel Sakari
Midfielders: Alpha Onyango, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire, Austin Odhiambo
Wingers: William Lenkupae, Job Ochieng, Boniface Muchiri
Strikers: Michael Olunga (Captain), Ryan Ogam, Lawrence Okoth
The upcoming matches will provide a stage for these talents to shine as they don the Harambee Stars jersey, representing their nation with pride and ambition.
