Mohamed Bajaber on Benni McCarthy’s plans for Harambee Stars in 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Harambee Stars are gearing up for crucial world cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.

Kenya Police forward Mohamed Bajaber has provided insight into Benni McCarthy’s vision for the Kenyan national football team, Harambee Stars, as preparations intensify ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

McCarthy, recently appointed as head coach, brings a fresh start to Kenyan football, with his leadership expected to revitalize the squad.

Harambee Stars are set to face Gambia on March 20 and Gabon on March 23, and McCarthy has already named his provisional squad.


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Among those selected is Bajaber, who has shared his experience in camp so far.

“We need young blood—young players with fresh legs. But the coach also believes in us, so we’ll see how the final squad comes together. Even if not now, in the future, these young stars will represent this nation,” said Bajaber.

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The forward described training under McCarthy as intense and purposeful, emphasizing the coach’s ambitious approach.

“Training has been good—intense—and the coach has ambition, which is a good thing. He’s always telling us what he expects from us and what he needs from us. I’m looking forward to the coach’s tenure, and to be honest, the future looks bright for Kenya,” he added.

Bajaber’s national team call-up comes as no surprise given his impressive form for Kenya Police.

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Since making a high-profile switch from Nairobi City Stars, the forward has been in stellar form.

On Saturday, he netted a brace in Kenya Police’s 3-1 victory over Murang’a Seal at the Machakos Stadium, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s top performers.

His heroics helped Kenya Police maintain their place at the top of the FKF Premier League table with 45 points, closely followed by Tusker (44 points) and Gor Mahia (42 points).

As McCarthy works to shape a competitive squad for the World Cup qualifiers, players like Bajaber will be keen to prove themselves and contribute to a new era of success for Harambee Stars.