Kenya’s Harambee Stars are primed and ready for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with head coach Benni McCarthy unveiling the final 25-man squad ahead of the tournament. Set to kick off on August 2, 2025, the tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking a historic moment for East African football.
The Kenyan squad boasts a strong blend of experience and emerging talent, carefully selected to compete against some of Africa’s finest home-based footballers. In goal, the team will rely on the dependable trio of Faruk Shikhalo, Sebastian Wekesa, and the returning Byrne Omondi, who adds valuable leadership and composure to the squad.
The defensive lineup is anchored by seasoned campaigners like captain Abud Omar, Michael Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, and Siraj Mohammed. Promising new additions include Manzur Suleiman, a standout from the recent AFCON U20 team, alongside first-time call-ups Swaleh Pamba, Lewis Bandi, and Kevin Okumu, signaling a future-oriented approach.
In midfield, Kenya fields a well-balanced mix, featuring the creativity and control of Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, and Marvin Nabwire. These players bring both energy and tactical discipline, vital for navigating the tough group stage.
Up front, Masoud Juma leads the line, supported by the pace and technical ability of Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, and Ryan Ogam. Fresh faces David Sakwa, Austin Odongo, and Felix Oluoch also make the cut, adding youthful ambition to the attacking department.
Kenya will compete in Group A alongside DR Congo, Angola, Morocco, and Zambia four strong teams that promise a fiercely contested group stage. All of Kenya’s fixtures will take place at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani, giving the home side a crucial advantage with local supporters expected to turn out in large numbers.
Coach McCarthy expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, noting that the players have responded well to the training demands and are eager to perform. With the team captained by Abud Omar and supported by vice-captains Daniel Sakari and Alphonce Omija, leadership on the pitch will be vital.
Harambee Stars will open their CHAN campaign against DR Congo on August 3, followed by fixtures against Angola, Morocco, and Zambia. As hosts and debutants in the tournament, Kenya will be keen to make a lasting impression.
