Kenya’s Harambee Stars have named their final 25-man squad for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with head coach Benni McCarthy unveiling a strong and balanced team ahead of the July 23 CAF submission deadline. The tournament, reserved for players active in domestic leagues, kicks off on August 2 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Harambee Stars will be in action on August 3rd, a day after hosts Tanzania open the tournament against Burkina Faso at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium. Kenya begins their Group C campaign against two-time champions DR Congo at the Kasarani Stadium, which will host all of their group-stage fixtures.
The squad, which blends youth with experience, signals McCarthy’s ambition of making a deep run on home soil.
Leading the front line is seasoned striker Masoud Juma, who recently signed with a National Super League side. Juma’s inclusion adds a lethal edge to Kenya’s attack, having consistently proven his goalscoring ability at both domestic and international levels.
He is joined in the attacking department by Ryan Ogam of Tusker FC, David Sakwa of Bandari FC, and Felix Oluoch from Posta Rangers. The exciting Mohammed Bajaber and Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri will offer width and pace on the flanks, while fan-favorite Austin ‘Lastborn’ Odongo of Shabana FC also makes the cut.
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In midfield, the spotlight falls on Austin Odhiambo, last season’s Most Valuable Player, who brings creativity and composure. He will link up with club teammates Alpha Onyango and Ben Stanley, forming a trio that already understands each other’s rhythm.
Also included are Brian Musa and Marvin Nabwire, both of whom offer defensive grit and ball progression from deep areas.
The defence will be led by the experienced Aboud Omar, who brings international pedigree to the backline. He will be supported by a blend of youth and promise, including Swaleh Pamba, Kevin Okumu, and Lewis Bandi, all standout performers from Kenya’s recent AFCON U20 campaign.
Veterans Daniel Sakari, Alphonce Omija, and Mike Kibwage provide leadership, while Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, and Sylvester Owino round out a versatile backline.
Between the posts, McCarthy has named Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, and Sebastian Wekesa, giving the team depth and flexibility in goalkeeping options.
Kenya’s CHAN 2024 Group Stage Fixtures:
August 3rd: Kenya Vs DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium
August 7th: Kenya Vs Angola at Kasarani Stadium
August 11th: Kenya Vs Morocco at Kasarani Stadium
August 15th: Kenya Vs Zambia at Kasarani Stadium
Reactions from Kenyan football fans have been largely positive, with many praising McCarthy’s inclusion of in-form local talents and rising stars. The tournament marks a significant opportunity for the nation to showcase its football development in front of home fans.
With the mix of experience, youth, and tactical versatility, expectations are high for Harambee Stars to progress beyond the group stage and potentially challenge for the title.
Full Harambee Stars Squad for CHAN 2024;
Goalkeepers:
Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa
Defenders:
Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Swaleh Pamba, Aboud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders:
Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Strikers:
Masoud Juma, Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
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