Harambee Stars will make their long-awaited debut at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) this Sunday at 3 p.m., stepping onto the continental stage with a clash against four-time opponents DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium.
The match marks a historic moment for Kenya, whose inclusion in CHAN 2024 represents a significant milestone in the country’s football journey.
Standing in their way is a seasoned DR Congo side, well-versed in the demands of the tournament and boasting a strong record in previous editions.
The two sides share a competitive history, having met nine times before. DR Congo holds a slight edge with four wins to Kenya’s three, while two matches have ended in draws. Their last encounter in 2019 saw the teams settle for a 1-1 stalemate.
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With a reshuffled squad and fresh momentum under new head coach Benni McCarthy, Kenya will be looking to defy the odds and make a strong impression in their opening fixture.
Below is the 27-man Harambee Stars squad that includes a mix of experienced and young talent players that the head coach, Benni McCarthy is depending on.
Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi, Faruk Shikhalo, and Sebastian Wekesa.
Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Brian Michira, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley Manzur Suleiman, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi and Kevin Okumu.
Midfielders: Chrispin Erambo, Marvin Nabwire
Forwards: Edward Omondi, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch.
McCarthy dropped Mohammed Bajaber, Swaleh Pamba, and Brian Musa due to fitness concerns, paving the way for Brian Michira (Shabana FC), Chrispin Erambo (Tusker FC), and Edward Omondi (Sofapaka) to join the national team’s CHAN campaign.