Kenya’s dream run at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) ended in heartbreak after a narrow penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar in the quarter-finals at Kasarani. Yet, out of that disappointment has emerged a new sense of hope, with Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy set to promote 15 standout players from the CHAN squad into the senior national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The South African tactician is convinced that the CHAN heroes deserve an opportunity to test themselves on the international stage. Their spirited displays showed quality, composure and a hunger to fight for the badge, qualities Kenya will need as they prepare for the remainder of their qualification journey.
After six matches in Group F, Harambee Stars sit fourth with six points from one win, three draws and two losses. Their only victory came in a 5-0 rout of Seychelles, while spirited draws against Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire and Gambia kept them in the mix. However, back-to-back defeats to Gabon dented their hopes, leaving them with an uphill battle as Côte d’Ivoire and Gabon pull ahead.
While progression to the 2026 World Cup looks unlikely, McCarthy has made it clear that the remaining matches will be used to blood new talent and prepare for the future. Kenya will host Gambia on September 5 before facing Seychelles on September 10 at Kasarani, offering fans a glimpse of a new-look side.
Among the players set for promotion is goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, whose commanding presence and shot-stopping ability stood out, especially in the clash against Morocco. Defenders Michael Kibwage, Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija – scorer of the quarter-final opener – and Mohammed Siraj also impressed with their discipline and defensive solidity.
In midfield, Austine Odhiambo, Alpha Onyango, Suleiman Manzur and Boniface Muchiri displayed creativity and control, while forwards like Ryan Ogam provided crucial goals and attacking spark. Ogam, who scored twice and delivered a man-of-the-match performance against Zambia, has emerged as one of the brightest prospects.
For Kenyan fans, the heartbreak of CHAN has been replaced with cautious optimism. A youthful, fearless squad is being molded not just for the remainder of the World Cup qualifiers but also for long-term growth. The blend of CHAN experience and exposure to higher-level competition could be the catalyst for a stronger, more competitive Harambee Stars in the years to come.
