AFCON 2025: Wanjala earns spot in Harambee Stars squad for qualifiers

Amos Wanjala (left) in action for Kenya. [Courtesy]

Rising Stars captain Amos Wanjala has received his first call-up to Kenya's senior national football team, Harambee Stars.

This is after Stars head coach Engin Firat named him in the 23-man squad set to face Zimbabwe and Namibia in the final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

This selection marks a significant milestone for the young defender, who has climbed the ranks from Kenya's U18 team to the U20, then U23, and now the senior national team.

Wanjala's ascent began with a standout performance as U18 captain at the CECAFA tournament in Kisumu last December.

His talent and leadership on the field quickly earned him a spot on Kenya's U23 squad, where he played all three matches in the COSAFA Cup held in South Africa.

He later led the U20 team to a second-place finish in the AFCON U20 qualifiers in Tanzania, securing their place in the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations.

His swift progression and growing reputation prompted fans to call for his promotion to Harambee Stars, a dream now realized with this AFCON qualifier call-up.

Joining Wanjala in the squad is Ulinzi Stars midfielder Leshan Mootian, making his debut, alongside Kenya Police's in-form midfielder Marvin Nabwire, who impressed in the recent CHAN qualifiers.

Veteran defender Charles Momanyi of Tusker FC also returns to the squad after anchoring Kenya's defense in the CHAN qualifier against South Sudan.

One notable omission is experienced goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, as Firat opts for Ian Otieno, Byrne Omondi, and Faruk Shikalo between the posts.

The Harambee Stars will travel to South Africa on November 11, 2024, to prepare for the two crucial Group J encounters at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Kenya currently sits third in the group with 4 points, trailing leaders Cameroon (10 points) and Zimbabwe (8 points). A strong showing against Zimbabwe on November 15 and Namibia on November 19 could keep Kenya's hopes alive for AFCON qualification.

Harambee Stars Squad for AFCON Qualifiers:

Goalkeepers
Byrne Odhiambo, Faruk Shikalo, Ian Otieno

Defenders
Daniel Anyembe, Amos Wanjala, Amos Nondi, Joseph Okumu, Johnstone Omurwa, Charles Momanyi, Eric Ouma, Abud Omar

Midfielders
Anthony Akumu, Marvin Nabwire, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma, Richard Odada, Austine Odhiambo, Ronney Onyango, Alfred Scriven, Leshan Mootian, Adam Wilson

Forwards
Michael Olunga, Jonah Ayunga, John Avire

With two pivotal matches ahead, Harambee Stars aim to showcase their best as they bid to secure a spot in the continental tournament.