Benni McCarthy Names Final Harambee Stars Squad for Gambia and Gabon World Cup Qualifiers
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has finalized his 25-man squad for Kenya’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia on March 20 and Gabon on March 23, making bold decisions in trimming the provisional list.
The final squad includes five local-based players: Farouk Shikhalo, Rooney Onyango, Manzur Okwaro, Ben Stanley Omondi, and Mohammed Bajaber. Their inclusion highlights McCarthy’s intent to maintain a mix of local and international talent for the qualifiers.
However, some notable omissions have drawn attention, with 24 players missing out on the final selection. One of the most surprising exclusions is Australian-born midfielder William Lenkupae, who had generated significant interest when the provisional squad was first announced. Expected to add depth to the midfield, Lenkupae did not make the final cut.
Another major omission is Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo, a midfielder in outstanding form in the FKF Premier League. Despite his impressive performances, he has been left out of the squad. His exclusion has sparked debate, especially since he was the league’s reigning Most Valuable Player.
Odhiambo is not the only Gor Mahia player to miss out, as Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Lawrence Juma, and Alpha Onyango have also been dropped. These decisions indicate that McCarthy prioritized experience and tactical balance over club form.
The final squad has been in camp since March 12, preparing for the two crucial matches. Kenya will first face Gambia on March 20 at Stade Alassane Ouattara in Ivory Coast. This away fixture presents a significant challenge, as Gambia has been a tough opponent in recent international outings. A positive result in this match is crucial for Harambee Stars to strengthen their chances of advancing in the qualifiers.
After the Gambia match, Kenya will return home to take on Gabon at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on March 23. The game, set to kick off at 4 PM, will be an opportunity for the team to capitalize on home advantage and secure vital points.
Final Harambee Stars 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
With these selections, McCarthy has shaped a squad he believes can deliver results in the upcoming matches. The balance between experienced players and young talents reflects his tactical approach, and all eyes will be on the Harambee Stars as they seek to make an impact in their World Cup qualifying campaign.
