The Harambee Stars are gearing up for a massive test in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as they prepare for back-to-back clashes against five-time African champions Cameroon.
Head coach Engin Firat has released his provisional 28-man squad, with notable returns and a few surprise inclusions that are sure to stir excitement among Kenyan football fans.
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The biggest headline in Firat’s squad announcement is the return of Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga.
The prolific striker missed the last set of qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia due to an injury, but his return will undoubtedly bolster Kenya’s attacking options.
Olunga, who has been in fine form with Duhail in Oman, will be a key figure as Kenya aims to upset Cameroon, one of Africa’s traditional football powerhouses.
Another key return is Danish-based right-back Daniel Anyembe, who was absent from the last international window due to personal reasons.
His inclusion is a significant boost to the defensive lineup as Kenya looks to tighten their backline against Cameroon’s potent attack.
While much of the squad from the previous qualifiers has been retained, Engin Firat has thrown in a few surprise call-ups.
Ulinzi Stars forward Boniface Muchiri makes a return to the national team after a long period out of contention.
His inclusion comes at the expense of Benson Omalla, whose exclusion has raised a few eyebrows among fans and pundits.
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Another interesting inclusion is Zanaco midfielder John Ochieng. Ochieng’s solid performances at club level have earned him a spot in Firat’s squad, adding depth and creativity to Kenya’s midfield.
This comes as part of Firat’s strategy to inject new energy into the team, especially with the absence of seasoned players like Abud Omar, who misses out completely.
Additionally, Adam Wilson, who plays for The New Saints, gets another chance to impress after being left out of the squad during the World Cup qualifiers in May. Wilson’s return to the fold signals Firat’s intention to strengthen his forward line with more versatile attacking options.
With Michael Olunga leading the attack, Kenya’s frontline looks poised for a strong showing against Cameroon.
The return of Olunga, coupled with the inclusion of Adam Wilson and Boniface Muchiri, gives Harambee Stars a dynamic and unpredictable attack that can cause problems for the Cameroonian defense.
Wilson’s recent performances in club football have impressed many, and he will be looking to translate that form onto the international stage.
The absence of Victor Omune, who featured in the previous squad, also stands out. Instead, AFC Leopards striker Sydney Lokale has been retained, along with John Avire, as part of the offensive options.
These attacking players will be tasked with breaking down a Cameroon defense that is known for its discipline and physicality.
In midfield, Firat has opted for a blend of youth and experience. The return of Alfred Scriven, who plies his trade with Bryne FK in Norway, is a noteworthy inclusion.
Scriven first made his appearance for the national team in March 2023, and his call-up signals Firat’s belief in his ability to provide balance in the midfield.
Richard Odada, currently with Dundee United, and Timothy Ouma of Elfsborg bring a mix of creativity and composure to the midfield, while Anthony Akumu, with his wealth of experience, will be crucial in stabilizing the center of the pitch.
Veteran Duke Abuya, who plays for Tanzanian giants Yanga, is another name to watch as he looks to bring his technical skills and vision to the team.
The midfield is further strengthened by the inclusion of young talents like Austine Odhiambo and Ronney Onyango, both of whom have impressed at Gor Mahia this season.
On the defensive side, the return of Daniel Anyembe is a key development. Kenya’s backline will need to be rock solid against a Cameroon side known for its fast and direct style of play.
Anyembe’s inclusion, along with the experienced Joseph Okumu of Reims and Eric Ouma of Rakow, provides Kenya with the defensive structure needed to compete at the highest level.
Sylvester Owino and Johnstone Omurwa, both of whom have been consistent performers in the Kenyan Premier League, will also have crucial roles to play as they face the physical and tactical challenge posed by Cameroon.
Goalkeepers: Trusted Hands Between the Posts
In goal, Firat has gone with familiar faces. Ian Otieno, currently with Richards Bay FC, is expected to start as Kenya’s number one, with Patrick Matasi of Kenya Police and Byrne Omondi of Bandari providing additional cover.
Otieno’s experience and shot-stopping ability will be critical, particularly with Cameroon’s talented forward line testing him throughout the two games.
Full Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Ian Otieno (Richards Bay FC)
- Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police)
- Byrne Omondi (Bandari)
Defenders:
- Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia)
- Daniel Anyembe (Viborg)
- Amos Nondi (Ararat)
- Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia)
- Johnstone Omurwa (Abha)
- Collins Sichenje (Vojvodina)
- Joseph Okumu (Reims)
- Geoffrey Ochieng (Gor Mahia)
- Eric Ouma (Rakow)
Midfielders:
- David Odoyo (Tusker)
- Chrispine Erambo (Tusker)
- Richard Odada (Dundee United)
- John Ochieng (Zanaco)
- Timothy Ouma (Elfsborg)
- Anthony Akumu (Kheybar)
- Duke Abuya (Yanga)
- Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia)
- Alfred Scriven (Bryne FK)
- Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia)
Forwards:
- John Avire (El Sekka El Hadid)
- Michael Olunga (Duhail-Oman)
- Jonah Ayunga (ST. Mirren-Scotland)
- Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars)
- Adam Wilson (New Saints)
- Sydney Lokale (AFC Leopards)
