Newly appointed national team coach Benni McCarthy has unveiled his provisional squad for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gabon and Gambia, including a daring blend of experience and audacious youth. The squad, announced earlier today, features the startling inclusion of three uncapped players, signaling a clear intent to inject fresh dynamism into the Harambee Stars’ campaign.
The most eye-catching selections are those of 19-year-old sensation Kelly Madada from AFC Leopards SC, the explosive attacking midfielder whose dribbling prowess has lit up the local league, and 17-year-old Andreas Odhiambo, a precocious talent from Kariobangi Sharks, known for his vision and pinpoint passing. Adding to the surprise, William Lenkupae, a robust midfielder plying his trade with Australia’s Central Coast Mariners, receives his first-ever national team call-up, a testament to McCarthy’s global scouting network.
“Wednesday’s camp is a crucial litmus test,” stated McCarthy. “We’ll be assessing the local talent, not just for the upcoming CHAN, but to identify those who can withstand the pressure of World Cup qualifiers against formidable opponents like Gambia and Gabon. I’m looking for players with grit, intelligence, and a hunger to prove themselves.”
The Harambee Stars face a daunting task, beginning with an away clash against Gambia on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the newly refurbished Stade Allasane Ouattara in Ivory Coast. The venue, chosen due to Gambia’s stadium unavailability, presents a neutral but demanding environment. The team will then return to Nairobi for a highly anticipated home fixture against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, March 23, 2025, kicking off at 4 PM.
The squad announcement reveals a strategic balance. In goal, veteran Brian Opondo of Tusker FC will compete with the experienced Faruk Shikhalo and overseas-based Ian Otieno and Brian Bwire. The defensive line boasts a mix of local stalwarts and international experience, including Eric Ouma, Joseph Okumu, and Brian Mandela.
The midfield, however, is where McCarthy’s bold vision is most evident. The inclusion of Madada, Odhiambo, and Lenkupae alongside seasoned players like Richard Odada and Anthony Akumu suggests a tactical shift towards a more fluid, attacking style. The forward line is equally intriguing, with Michael Olunga leading the charge alongside emerging talents like Mathew Tegisi and Masud Juma.
Local-based players are expected to report to camp on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, for a rigorous training schedule. McCarthy’s first camp will be a crucible, where he will forge a cohesive unit capable of overcoming the challenges ahead.
Provisional Squad Breakdown:
- Goalkeepers: Brian Opondo, Faruk Shikhalo, Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire.
- Defenders: Sylvester Owino, Ronney Onyango, Alphonce Omija, Siraj Mohamed, Daniel Sakari, Levis Esambe, Eric Ouma, Johnstone Omurwa, Joseph Okumu, Collins Sichenje, Daniel Anyembe, Brian Mandela, Amos Nondi.
- Midfielders: Musa Katibi, Chris Erambo, Austine Odhiambo, Lawrence Juma, Kelly Madada, Ben Stanley, Mathias Isogoli, Andreas Odhiambo, Alpha Onyango, Richard Odada, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma, Apollo Otieno, Amos Nondi, Eric Johanna, Anthony Akumu, Ismail Gonzalez, William Lenkupae.
- Forwards: Boniface Muchiri, James Kinyanjui, Alvin Mang’eni, Mohamed Bajaber, Eric Balecho, Ryan Ogam, Moses Shumah, Edward Omondi, Elvis Rupia, John Avire, Jonah Ayunga, Michael Olunga, Mathew Tegisi, Masud Juma.
