Benni McCarthy names final Harambee Stars squad for Gambia and Gabon World Cup qualifiers

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has named his 23-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 final squad includes five local-based players: Farouk Shikhalo, Rooney Onyango, Manzur Okwaro, Ben Stanley Omondi and Mohammed Bajaber.

However, the biggest talking points are the omissions, with 24 players missing out on the final selection.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

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.

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.

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.

Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikhalo

Defenders: Jonstone Omurwa, Brian Mandela, 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