Harambee Stars team head coach Benni McCarthy has officially unveiled his finalized 24-man squad for Kenya’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification matches. The South African tactician trimmed his preliminary setup following an intensive evaluation camp in Nairobi.
The newly announced Harambee Stars team features a balanced distribution across all departments. The team consists of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, five midfielders, and eight forwards. McCarthy’s tactical selection prioritizes physical discipline and match fitness ahead of the upcoming international fixtures.
Kenya Premier League champions Gor Mahia command a strong presence within the team with five key players to the national setup. Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi and defender Frank Odhiambo will lead the backline.
The final team integrates established foreign-based talent to command technical depth. Midfielder Timothy Ouma of Charlton Athletic and AIK defender Stanley Wilson both made the final cut after impressing the technical bench.
11 Stars Dropped from Final Harambee Stars Team for Afcon Qualifiers
To reach his final 24-man list, coach McCarthy dropped 11 foreign-based players from his initial provisional squad. High-profile names omitted from the final setup include vice-captain Joseph Okumu, goalkeeper Ian Otieno, and Wrexham defender Zak Vyner.
The selection process also saw tough decisions regarding rising youth talent. Spanish-based teenager Aldrine Kibet of Celta Vigo, alongside Kevin Wangaya and Paul Ochuoga, were left out as McCarthy opted for immediate senior international experience.
In goal, Byrne Omondi is joined by Faruk Shikhalo of Nairobi United and Brian Bwire of Tusker, forming a competitive goalkeeping trio for the national squad.
The defensive unit of the Harambee Stars team features Michael Kibagwe, Rooney Onyango, Hannif Wesonga, Abud Omar, Amos Wanjala, Frank Odhiambo, and newly added Exeter City defender Vincent Harper.
The midfield department will be anchored by Manzur Okwaro of Stade Reims, Timothy Ouma, Chris Erambo, Duke Abuya, and Marvin Nabwire to offer a blend of defensive stability and quick transition play.
Up front, team captain Michael Olunga leads the attacking frontline alongside Sharif Musa, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanley, Job Ochieng, Javan Ochieng, Micah Obiero, and Ryan Ogam.
The Harambee Stars team will launch its Group D qualification campaign at home against Eritrea on September 26,2026 at the Nyayo National Stadium, aiming for a strong start in front of local fans.
Following the home opener, the Harambee Stars team will travel to Conakry to face Guinea on October 1,2026 building crucial competitive momentum as Kenya prepares to co-host the AFCON 2027 finals.
