Kenya vs Senegal: Harambee Stars Probable Lineup Against Teranga Lions
Harambee Stars have one of their biggest tests in recent years as they take on Senegal in a friendly match in Turkey on Tuesday evening.
Kenya and Senegal last faced off at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, when the Teranga Lions won 3-1, and in all their five meetings, the West Africans have won four while the other one finished in a draw.
However, both teams head into the match from losses with Kenya having been beaten 1-0 by Equatorial Guinea on Friday while Senegal lost 2-0 to Brazil the following day.
For Kenya to get a positive result therefore, coach Benni McCarthy will need to field a strong line up and Pulse Sports predicts how Harambee Stars are likely to line up.
Goalkeeper: Byrne Omondi
The Gor Mahia shot-stopper has been a mainstay in goal and his performances suggest he will retain his place for a match that will likely keep him busy.
Right-back: Ronney Onyango
The Norway-based full-back has no challengers at right-back but he has proved to be reliable both defensively and offensively.
Left-back: Kevin Otieno
Benni McCarthy’s options are limited in this position with youngsters as specialists left-back in the squad and after the Nairobi United star impressed on Friday, he will likely keep his place.
Centre-back: Sylvester Owino
He has become a vital cog under Benni McCarthy due to his calmness and ability to sniff out danger and he is set to keep his place.
Centre-back: Michael Kibwage
The Gor Mahia defender has plenty of experience which will be needed against the 2021 Africa champions.
Central midfield: Alpha Onyango
He did not start on Friday but he offers the team balance and shields the defence well while his tenacity will be needed against a top-quality opposition like Senegal.
Central midfield: Marvin Nabwire
With Senegal set to heavily test Kenya, a double pivot of defensively-minded players will be needed and the Kenya Police man ticks most boxes.
Attacking midfield: Duke Abuya
The Yanga midfielder can play a little deep or advanced and he will oscillate between the two positions in a tough game that will likely be won in midfield.
Right wing: Shariff Musa
The Gor Mahia winger started on the bench against Equatorial Guinea but this is a match that suits him as there will be space for him to attack when the Teranga Lions push numbers forward.
Left wing: William Lenkupae
The 23-year-old has been a permanent fixture in the team and he brings energy, pace and vision but he has to be clinical after missing lots of chances previously.
Striker: Ryan Ogam
This is a game that suits the Austria-based forward as the Senegal centre-backs are not blessed with pace and he could find himself in behind the defence quite often, allowing him to show his qualities.