Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy finalizes his 25-man squad for crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia on March 20 and Gabon on March 23.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has named his 25-man squad for Kenya’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon, making some bold decisions as he trimmed the provisional list.
The squad, led by captain Michael Olunga, features five locally based players: Farouk Shikhalo, Rooney Onyango, Manzur Okwaro, Ben Stanley Omondi, and Mohammed Bajaber.
Olympic champion Gabby Thomas explains why she opted for a second job after finding out that there’s no enough money on the track.
However, the biggest talking points are the omissions, with 10 players missing out on the final selection.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Athletics News in Kenya from Pulse Sports.
As reported by Mozzart Sport, one of the most notable absentees is Australian-born midfielder William Lenkupae, who had drawn significant attention when the provisional squad was announced.
The midfielder, who was expected to add depth to the team, has not made the cut.
)
African footballers have enjoyed massive success on and off the field. While the huge perks is a reward for hard work, some of them own luxurious private jets.
Another significant exclusion is in-form Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo, who has been left out despite his impressive performances in the FKF Premier League.
Odhiambo is not the only Gor Mahia player dropped, as Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Lawrence Juma, and Alpha Onyango have also been omitted from the squad.
McCarthy’s final squad selection suggests a preference for experience and tactical balance over recent club form.
)
Tusker striker Ryan Ogam chose to honour Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars call-up but his club is not happy with him over a number of reasons.
The omission of Odhiambo, the reigning FKFPL Most Valuable Player, will certainly spark debate among fans and analysts, but the coach appears to have a clear vision for the upcoming qualifiers.
The team has been in camp since Wednesday, March 12, 2025, in preparation for the two crucial matches.
Kenya will first face Gambia on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Stade Alassane Ouattara in Ivory Coast.
This away fixture presents a significant challenge, as Gambia has proven to be a tough opponent in recent international outings. A positive result in this match will be crucial for Harambee Stars as they aim to boost their chances of progressing in the qualifiers.
After the Gambia match, Kenya will return home to take on Gabon at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The match is scheduled to kick off at 4 PM, and the home advantage could provide a much-needed boost for the team.
Final Squad
Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikhalo
Defenders: Joseph Okumu, Jonstone Omurwa, Brian Mandela, Collins Sichenje, Daniel Anyembe, Amos Nondi, Erick Ouma, Manzur Okwaro, Ronny Onyango
Midfielders: Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Ismael Gonzalez, Timothy Ouma, Eric Johana, Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanley Omondi
Forwards: Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia, John Avire, Michael Olunga
