Harambee Stars traveling squad for 2025 AFCON qualifiers named

Kenneth Muguna of Harambee Stars in training.[FKF Media]

The Harambee Stars head coach, Engin Firat, has announced the squad that will represent Kenya in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia.

These crucial encounters are scheduled to take place on September 6 and 10, respectively, as Kenya eyes a return to the continental stage.

The first of the two matches will see the Harambee Stars face Zimbabwe on September 6. The game will be played in Uganda, providing a neutral venue for the two teams. The squad will then travel to South Africa for the second match against Namibia, which is slated for September 10.

The team is set to depart Nairobi for Uganda on Monday, September 2, 2024. After the match against Zimbabwe, the squad will continue their journey to South Africa on Saturday, September 7, to prepare for the game against Namibia.

Leading the team is captain Michael Olunga, whose experience and goal-scoring ability will be crucial for Kenya's chances. He will be joined by other key players, including forward Jonah Ayunga, defenders Eric Ouma and Joseph Okumu, and midfielder Richard Odada. These players are expected to bolster the squad's chances in the qualifiers.

The travelling squad comprises a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents across all positions. The goalkeeping department will feature Levis Opiyo, Patrick Matasi, and Byrne Omondi. The defense line includes Sharrif Majabe, Johnstone Omurwa, Amos Nondi, Abud Omar, Sylvester Owino, and Alphonce Omija, alongside the experienced Okumu and Ouma.

In the midfield, Firat has opted for a mix of creativity and physicality with players like Chris Erambo, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Eric Johanna, Ronney Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Duke Abuya, and Timothy Ouma. These midfielders will provide the necessary support both in defense and attack, aiming to control the tempo of the games.

Upfront, the attacking options look promising, with John Avire, Benson Omalla, Victor Omune, and Jonah Ayunga set to provide the attacking thrust alongside Olunga. Their goals will be vital as Kenya seeks to secure maximum points from these encounters and boost their chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON.

Coach Engin Firat expressed confidence in the team's ability to deliver strong performances in these qualifiers, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, discipline, and tactical awareness as they aim to secure a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Harambee Stars Squad

Goalkeepers

Levis Opiyo, Patrick Matasi, Byrne Omondi

Defenders

Sharrif Majabe, Joseph Okumu, Johnstone Omurwa, Amos Nondi, Abud Omar, Eric Ouma, Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija

Midfielders

Chris Erambo, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Eric Johanna, Ronney Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma

Forwards

John Avire, Michael Olunga, Jonah Ayunga, Benson Omalla, Victor Omune