Benni McCarthy, head coach of the Harambee Stars, has named his 24-man squad for the final two World Cup qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast. Although Kenya’s chances of securing a direct World Cup qualification are slim, McCarthy is focused on building for the future, with a mix of experienced internationals, debutants, and standouts from the 2024 CHAN tournament.
The squad is spearheaded by team captain Michael Olunga, who will be expected to lead the attack. Alongside him are Ryan Ogam and debutant Lawrence Okoth, a promising young striker who has impressed with the U20 side. Lawrence Ouma also earns his first call-up to the senior team after a standout performance in Kenya’s AFCON U20 match against Tunisia.
A notable inclusion in the squad is English-based defender Vincent Harper, who returns to the national team after being part of the 2023 squad that drew 2-2 with Russia. Other foreign-based players in the mix include goalkeeper Brian Bwire (Polokwane City), defender Collins Sichenje (Vojvodina), and winger Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad B). These players will bring valuable experience to the team as they look to make a strong finish in the qualifiers.
The midfield will feature regulars such as Duke Abuya and Timothy Ouma, providing a balance of creativity and hard work. The defense will be bolstered by familiar faces from the CHAN 2024 squad, including Byrne Omondi, Alpha Onyango, Abud Omar, and Daniel Sakari.
With 13 players from the successful CHAN 2024 campaign making the cut, McCarthy is blending youthful promise with senior talent to strengthen the squad. Despite the challenges ahead, the team remains committed to finishing their qualification campaign on a positive note.
The squad includes:
- 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, Austine Odhiambo
- Wingers: William Lenkupae, Job Ochieng, Boniface Muchiri
- Strikers: Michael Olunga (Captain), Ryan Ogam, Lawrence Okoth
With a balanced squad, McCarthy is hopeful that the Harambee Stars will close out their World Cup qualifiers with a strong performance against Burundi and Ivory Coast.
