Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has named his final team to represent Kenya in the make-or-break 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against The Gambia and Seychelles in September.
Kenya takes on The Gambia on Friday, September 5, then hosts Seychelles on Tuesday, September 9, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The two matches start at 4:00 pm, and the outcomes will be crucial in determining Kenya’s World Cup fate.
Group Standings and Qualification Path
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) qualification format only has the group winners automatically qualify, while the four best runners-up from the groups enter a knockout playoff. The playoff winner will advance to represent Africa in FIFA’s intercontinental playoff.
Kenya is now fourth in the group with six points. Ivory Coast leads with 16 points, followed by Gabon with 15 and Burundi with 10. With the race still open, Kenya’s exploitation of its home advantage at Kasarani may turn out to be the decider.
A Blend of Homegrown and Foreign-Based Talent
McCarthy has struck a balance between experienced internationals and promising local players. Goalkeeper Job Ochieng has received his first senior call-up, while 13 players from the CHAN semifinal squad earlier this year have also made the cut.
Full Squad
Goalkeepers
Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Brian Bwire
Defenders
Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Collins Sichenje, Michael Kibwage, Ronney Onyango, Abud Omar, Lewis Bandi
Midfielders
Richard Odada, Alpha Onyango, Duke Abuya, Manzur Suleiman, Timothy Ouma, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Wingers
Emmanuel Osoro, William Lenkupae, Job Ochieng, Boniface Muchiri
Strikers
Michael Olunga (Captain), Ryan Ogam
Eyes on Kasarani
The squad will rely on captain Michael Olunga’s firepower and leadership up front, and with a youthful midfield and reliable defensive choices, depth is added. McCarthy views this as a chance to make his mark by steering Kenya closer to its World Cup dream.
