Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has included seven Gor Mahia players in his provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon. The selection highlights the growing influence of Gor Mahia’s squad on the national team, with both experienced players and new faces getting a call-up.
The highly anticipated fixtures will see Kenya face Gambia in Ivory Coast on March 20 before hosting Gabon four days later. The home match will mark the first competitive game played on Kenyan soil in four years, making it a significant moment for both the team and the fans.
Gor Mahia Stars Lead the Way in Harambee Stars Call-Up
The inclusion of seven Gor Mahia players in the national squad is a testament to the club’s dominance in Kenyan football. Among those selected is last season’s FKF Premier League MVP, Austin Odhiambo, who has been in impressive form since recovering from injury. The midfielder has already netted four goals this season, proving his value as a key playmaker.
Right-back Ronney Onyango, currently on trial in Norway, has also earned a call-up, along with defensive stalwarts Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija. Both defenders were integral to former Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat’s plans, and their inclusion signals McCarthy’s intent to build a strong defensive core.
Midfielders Lawrence Juma, Alpha Onyango, and new Gor Mahia signing Ben Stanley Omondi complete the list of K’Ogalo players named in the squad.
Surprise Inclusion of Ben Stanley
One of the biggest surprises in the squad is the selection of Ben Stanley, who is yet to make an appearance for Gor Mahia since joining from Kakamega Homeboyz in the January transfer window. Despite his lack of minutes at club level, McCarthy and his technical team see potential in the young midfielder, having monitored his performances in training.
Stanley was part of the Kenya squad that competed in the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar, and his performances there may have influenced his inclusion. His selection suggests that McCarthy is open to giving young players a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.
Lawrence Juma Makes a Comeback
Another notable returnee is Lawrence Juma, who has reestablished himself as a key player at Gor Mahia under new coach Sinisa Mihic. Juma had been away from the national team for a couple of years but has now reclaimed his place after strong performances in the FKF Premier League. His ability to control the midfield and contribute to attacking plays makes him a valuable asset for Harambee Stars.
Kenya’s Return to Hosting International Matches
Kenya’s match against Gabon on March 24 will be the first competitive international game played on home soil since 2021. The last home fixture was a World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, which Kenya won 2-1 at Nyayo National Stadium. Goals from Michael Olunga and Richard Odada sealed the victory in that match.
The return of international football to Kenya is a significant moment for the team, the fans, and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). After years of playing home matches on neutral grounds due to stadium issues and FIFA bans, the opportunity to host a crucial qualifier at home could provide Harambee Stars with a much-needed boost.
Harambee Stars’ Path to the World Cup
Kenya’s World Cup qualification campaign is set to be a tough challenge, with strong teams in their group. However, the expansion of the tournament to 48 teams in 2026 gives more African nations a chance to secure a spot. A strong performance against Gambia and Gabon will be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the qualification campaign.
McCarthy’s squad selection shows a balance of experience and youthful energy, with a mix of locally based and international players. With Kenya aiming for its first-ever World Cup appearance, the upcoming fixtures are vital for establishing momentum.
What’s Next for Harambee Stars?
The national team is set to begin camp on Sunday, with final squad selections expected before the squad departs for Ivory Coast on March 18. McCarthy and his technical team will have limited time to prepare, but they will be looking to make the most of their training sessions.
Kenyan fans will be eagerly anticipating the performances of Gor Mahia’s representatives in the squad, hoping that they can make a difference in the crucial qualifiers. The upcoming matches against Gambia and Gabon will be a defining moment in the campaign, and McCarthy will be aiming to get off to a strong start in his first major assignment as Harambee Stars head coach.
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