Harambee Stars make four lineup changes for crucial World Cup qualifier against Gabon, aiming to revive hopes with fresh faces.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has rung the changes ahead of Kenya’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon, set to kick off at 4pm on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium.
McCarthy has made five changes to the starting XI that featured in their last outing, aiming to inject fresh energy and tactical variation as the team looks to revive its qualification hopes.
Key inclusions in the lineup are Johnstone Omurwa, William Lekumpae, Timothy Ouma, Mohammed Bajaber, and left-back Erick Ouma, who returns to bolster the backline.
Harambee Stars will shift focus to their World Cup qualifier against Gabon in Nairobi on Sunday and here is everything you need to know about the must-win clash.
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The dropped players from the previous starting XI include Brian Mandela, Ismael Gonzalez, Richard Odada, John Avire, and Eric Johana. Their omission appears to be a strategic decision, as McCarthy experiments with new combinations in search of a more cohesive and threatening side.
Kenya currently sits fourth in Group F with six points from five matches, trailing group leaders Ivory Coast by a staggering 13 points.
With qualification chances narrowing, the Harambee Stars will be desperate for a victory on home soil to keep slim hopes alive and restore belief among the fans.
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The confirmed starting XI for today’s encounter sees Ian Otieno retain his place in goal, with Ronney Onyango, Johnstone Omurwa, Daniel Anyembe, and Erick Ouma forming the defensive unit.
In midfield, Anthony Akumu anchors the play alongside William Lekumpae and Timothy Ouma, while creative spark Mohammed Bajaber is expected to support leading striker Michael Olunga in attack.
The match against Gabon is a must-win for Kenya, especially after mixed results in the earlier rounds of qualifying.
Gabon, known for their physicality and technical midfielders, will pose a significant threat, but McCarthy is confident that the changes made will give the team the edge they need.
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Gabon forward Denis Bouanga has put Harambee Stars on notice ahead of vital 2026 World Cup qualifier.
With Nyayo National Stadium expected to be packed with local fans, Harambee Stars will be banking on home support to push them over the line.
McCarthy, in his first major qualifying campaign with the national team, will be looking for a statement performance as he continues to stamp his identity on the squad.
Harambee Stars Starting XI vs Gabon:
Ian Otieno (GK), Ronney Onyango, Johnstone Omurwa, Daniel Anyembe, Erick Ouma, Anthony Akumu, William Lekumpae, Timothy Ouma, Mohammed Bajaber, Michael Olunga.
Substitutes: Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikalo, Manzur Okwaro, Brian Mandela, Duke Abuya, Ismael Gonzalez, John Avire, Ben Stanley Omondi, Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia.
