Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has unveiled his 28-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where Kenya will face five-time African champions Cameroon in back-to-back matches. The squad includes several key returnees and new faces, giving the national team a fresh boost as they look to secure a spot in the prestigious continental tournament.
Among the highlights of Firat’s selection is the return of team captain Michael Olunga, who missed the last set of qualifiers due to injury. Danish-based right-back Daniel Anyembe also makes his comeback after sitting out of the previous international window due to personal reasons. With these experienced players back in the fold, Kenya will head into the critical matches with renewed confidence.
Return of Key Players: Michael Olunga and Daniel Anyembe
The most notable inclusion in Engin Firat’s squad is that of captain Michael Olunga, the Duhail-Oman forward who has been the team’s talisman in recent years. Olunga’s return from injury couldn’t come at a better time, as his leadership and goal-scoring abilities will be pivotal in the tough matches against Cameroon. Having missed the last two qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia, Olunga’s return is a significant boost to the squad’s attacking line.
Right-back Daniel Anyembe, who plies his trade at Viborg in Denmark, also returns to the team after missing the previous qualifiers due to personal issues. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute to attacking play down the right flank will be key for Harambee Stars in maintaining a solid backline against Cameroon’s highly skilled forwards.
Surprise Call-Ups: Boniface Muchiri and John Ochieng
In addition to the returning stars, two surprise inclusions in the squad are Boniface Muchiri and John Ochieng. Muchiri, a forward from Ulinzi Stars, has earned his place in the national team after a strong domestic season. Despite being out of the national setup for a while, Firat has shown faith in Muchiri’s abilities, and he is expected to bring added depth and versatility to the team’s attacking options.
Similarly, John Ochieng, a midfielder playing for Zanaco in Zambia, has been included in the squad, marking a surprise selection that reflects Firat’s strategy of refreshing the squad with new faces. Ochieng’s performances in Zambia have impressed the coaching staff, and his ability to control the midfield will be vital in the high-stakes qualifiers.
Solidifying Midfield and Attack: David Odoyo and Sydney Lokale
David Odoyo from Tusker FC and Sydney Lokale of AFC Leopards are two young talents who have cemented their places in the squad after their impressive starts to the 2024/25 season. Odoyo, a midfield powerhouse for Tusker, is making his first appearance in the senior national team after a series of stellar performances in the FKF Premier League. His call-up highlights Firat’s intention to introduce young, homegrown talent into the national fold.
AFC Leopards striker Sydney Lokale has also earned his place in the squad after a strong start to the season, where he scored two goals in four matches. Lokale’s return to the national team comes after his absence since 2021, and he will be looking to capitalize on his good form to make an impact in the qualifiers. His physicality and eye for goal will be crucial as Harambee Stars aim to break down Cameroon’s experienced defense.
Focus on Defensive Stability: Alfred Scriven and Geoffrey Ochieng
The defensive unit has also been strengthened with the return of Alfred Scriven, a Norwegian-based player who represents FK Bryne. Scriven received his first call-up in March 2023, and his inclusion in the squad provides Firat with a reliable option in the defense. Known for his strong tackling and ability to read the game, Scriven will add much-needed stability at the back as Kenya prepares to face Cameroon’s dangerous attackers.
Geoffrey Ochieng, a versatile defender from Gor Mahia, has also been included in the squad. Ochieng’s presence in the team will offer Firat flexibility in the defensive setup, especially as Abud Omar from Kenya Police misses out this time. Ochieng’s ability to play in multiple defensive positions makes him an asset in Firat’s tactical plans.
Mix of Experience and Youth in Midfield and Attack
The squad includes a well-balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Alongside the returning stars, players like Richard Odada of Dundee United, Timothy Ouma of Elfsborg, and Anthony Akumu of Kheybar add depth and international experience to the midfield.
In the attacking department, Jonah Ayunga of St. Mirren, Adam Wilson of The New Saints, and John Avire of El Sekka El Hadid bring various attacking options, allowing Firat to approach the games against Cameroon with multiple tactical setups.
Your #HarambeeStars AFCON 2025 qualifiers provisional Squad. #Tunaweza pic.twitter.com/jqqeO6O6Q9
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) October 2, 2024
Wilson’s inclusion comes after missing out on the final list for May’s World Cup Qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast. His return provides additional firepower up front, complementing the likes of Olunga and Ayunga.
Tactical Adjustments and Key Absences
While the squad features several returning players and surprise inclusions, it also sees the omission of some notable names. Benson Omalla, who was a regular in previous squads, has been dropped, and AFC Leopards’ Victor Omune is also left out of the team. Firat’s tactical choices reflect his desire to experiment with new combinations and players as he prepares for the crucial qualifiers.
With the squad now finalized, Firat’s tactical approach will be scrutinized as Kenya takes on Cameroon. The doubleheader against one of Africa’s most successful football nations will be a significant test for Harambee Stars. Firat’s decisions on squad selection and formation will play a critical role in determining whether Kenya can secure vital points and move closer to AFCON qualification.
A Balanced Squad for a Crucial AFCON Campaign
Engin Firat’s 28-man provisional Harambee Stars squad offers a mix of experience, youth, and tactical versatility as Kenya prepares for back-to-back games against Cameroon in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. With the return of key players like Michael Olunga and Daniel Anyembe, combined with the inclusion of fresh talent such as Boniface Muchiri and John Ochieng, Firat has created a well-rounded team capable of competing at the highest level.
As Harambee Stars gear up for these crucial matches, the squad will look to build momentum and secure their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
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