Incoming Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy may have to plan for his first matches in charge without key forward Jonah Ayunga.
The St Mirren striker was forced to sit out his club’s Scottish Premiership clash against Celtic on Saturday due to an ankle injury. This setback comes at a crucial time, as McCarthy is set to lead Kenya in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
Harambee Stars are scheduled to face The Gambia on March 17 before hosting Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium on March 24. The Gambia, managed by former Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry, and a Gabon side featuring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, present tough challenges for Kenya in their quest for World Cup qualification.
Ayunga, who made his debut for Kenya in March 2024 against Malawi, has been an important part of St Mirren’s squad this season. Although often used as a substitute, he has made 19 league appearances and contributed two goal involvements. His recent performances, including an assist against Rangers two weeks ago, earned him a starting role in a midweek fixture against Hearts. However, an ankle injury forced him off at halftime, leading to his absence from the squad against Celtic.
St Mirren struggled in his absence, suffering a 5-2 defeat at The SMiSA Stadium. The Buddies fought back twice, with Declan John and Killian Phillips responding to goals from Celtic’s Jeffrey Schlupp and Arne Engels. However, a late surge from the visitors saw substitute Hyunjun Yang score twice, alongside a goal from Daizen Maeda, sealing a comprehensive victory for Celtic.
Ayunga’s international career has been on the rise, with the forward scoring his first goal for Kenya on November 15, 2024, in a crucial 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe during the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Born in England to a Kenyan father and an English mother, Ayunga first received a national team call-up in 2016 but had to wait until 2024 to make his debut.
His commitment to the national team has been evident, and he has expressed his desire to represent Kenya at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking in December 2022, Ayunga shared his ambition of playing on football’s biggest stage, stating that every player dreams of reaching the World Cup.
With important fixtures approaching, Harambee Stars will be hoping for positive news regarding Ayunga’s recovery. His presence would be a boost for Kenya as they embark on their qualification journey under new leadership.
