Benson Omalla Poised to Lead Harambee Stars in AFCON Qualifiers Amid Olunga’s Injury Concerns

As Kenya gears up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, former Gor Mahia forward Benson Omalla is ready to step up as the national team’s main striker in the absence of captain Michael Olunga. With Olunga nursing an injury from the early weeks of the Qatar Stars League (QSL), his participation in the opening match against Zimbabwe in Kampala on Friday remains uncertain, leaving a significant void in Kenya’s attack.

Olunga, the usual talisman for Kenya’s Harambee Stars, has been pivotal in their recent campaigns. His possible absence has cast a shadow over Kenya’s chances, but for Omalla, it represents a golden opportunity. The young striker, who recently clinched the FKF Premier League golden boot with Gor Mahia and moved to Lebanon, is eager to fill the void and lead the line for the national team.

Speaking to Capital Sports, Omalla expressed his readiness to take on the mantle, emphasizing his preparedness and willingness to seize any opportunity that comes his way. “As a player, you always have to be ready if you are in the team because anything can happen and you can be called upon. I have been in the system for a while and I have learned a lot both from the coaches and from the captain. If given a chance, I believe in myself and I believe I can show something,” Omalla said.

The 22-year-old striker’s journey to the senior national team has been marked by dedication and a keen sense of ambition. Despite his impressive performances at the club level, Omalla is yet to replicate the same form for the senior national team. However, he showcased his potential by scoring for Kenya’s Under-23 team during the COSAFA Cup last month, which could serve as a confidence booster ahead of the crucial qualifiers.

Omalla’s move to Lebanon marked a significant step in his career, as he sought to challenge himself on a different stage. His inclusion in the final squad for the two qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia signals the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities to make an impact when it matters most. With Olunga set to undergo an MRI in Kampala to determine his availability for the second game against Namibia in Johannesburg next Tuesday, Omalla could have a pivotal role to play in both matches.

Reflecting on the upcoming qualifiers, Omalla expressed his desire to make a mark on the continental stage. “Every player wants to play at the highest level, and I am taking these qualifiers very seriously. I also want to compete at the top level, and heading to the AFCON qualifiers, I am confident that we can come through,” he noted. Omalla’s optimism is not misplaced; he has been a prolific goal-scorer at the domestic level, and with the right support, he could be the answer to Kenya’s search for goals in Olunga’s absence.

Preparation has been key for the Harambee Stars as they seek to start the qualifiers on a positive note. Omalla highlighted the team’s rigorous training sessions in the lead-up to the Zimbabwe clash, stating, “We have trained very well for the past few days and preparations have been good. We are looking forward to starting well and winning our first game.”

Despite the challenges, Omalla’s determination and readiness to step up could be the catalyst Kenya needs to navigate the tricky AFCON qualifiers. His youthful exuberance, combined with the experience he has garnered both locally and internationally, positions him as a crucial figure for Harambee Stars. As Kenya looks to return to the continental stage, the spotlight is now on Omalla to deliver and potentially lead his nation to glory in the absence of their captain and star player, Michael Olunga.