Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has announced his final 25-player squad for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which marks a milestone as Kenya will be making its debut in the continental tournament. The matches kick off on August 3 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

McCarthy’s final selection is a blend of youthful energy with experience that offers a strategic approach to CHAN.. Among the standout inclusions is Shabana FC’s electrifying talent Austin ‘Musa’ Odongo, whose performances have captured the attention of fans nationwide. He joins Posta Rangers’ red-hot striker Felix Oluoch Mboya and seasoned forward Masud Juma, who adds leadership and composure up front.

In the goalkeeping department, McCarthy has selected a reliable trio: Bryne Omondi, recently signed by Gor Mahia; Sebastian Wekesa of Kariobangi Sharks; and Faruk Shikalo, the experienced Bandari custodian.

The defensive line draws heavily from the FKF Premier League. Gor Mahia’s dependable pair, Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija, will marshal the back, supported by Kenya Police FC fullbacks Daniel Sakari and Abud Omar. Former Bandari left-back Siraj Mohamed adds depth and balance to the flanks.

Tusker’s Michael Kibwage returns to anchor central defense, with strong reinforcements from KCB’s Manzur Suleiman and Kevin Okumu. AFC Leopards’ Lewis Bandi completes a well-rounded and tactically sound backline.

In midfield, creativity and control come from Gor Mahia trio Ben Stanley, Alpha Onyango, and Austin Odhiambo. Kenya Police’s Brian Musa and Marvin Nabwire inject energy, grit, and balance in the center of the pitch.

Up front, McCarthy has assembled a fast and unpredictable attacking force. Tusker’s Ryan Ogam, Mohamed Bajaber from Police FC, Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri, and Bandari’s David Sakwa are all expected to stretch defenses and hunt for goals.

Speaking during a training session at Nyayo National Stadium, McCarthy was impressed with the way the team has been going.

“The preparations have been fantastic, and the lads have stepped up the intensity. I’m pleased with how they’ve responded to the demands of the technical bench, and I’m satisfied with what I’ve seen in training. I’m confident we’ll be ready to represent the country well at CHAN,” said McCarthy.

With Kenya facing a stiff Group A that has continental giants DR Congo, Morocco, Angola, and Zambia, McCarthy believes the team is ready mentally and physically for its biggest challenge yet on the African continent.

Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 Squad

Goalkeepers
Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa

Defenders
Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Pamba Swaleh, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu

Midfielders
Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire

Forwards
Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch

Kenya CHAN 2024 Group A Fixtures (All at Kasarani Stadium)

Kenya vs DR Congo | Sunday, August 3 | 3:00 PM

Angola vs Kenya | Thursday, August 7 | 7:00 PM

Kenya vs Morocco | Sunday, August 10 | 3:00 PM

Zambia vs Kenya | Sunday, August 17 | 3:00 PM