Kenya’s Harambee Stars are gearing up for a highly anticipated showdown against South Sudan in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers.
Head coach Engin Firat has named the final squad for the upcoming two-legged tie, which kicks off with an away match on 27 October 2024 at Juba International Stadium. The return leg is scheduled for 3 November 2024 at Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium.
With Kenya already guaranteed a spot in the 2025 CHAN tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the team will be looking to make a statement during these qualifiers.
Even though the Harambee Stars have automatic qualification, advancing in the qualifiers would send a message of intent ahead of the tournament, set to take place from 1 to 28 February 2025.
Kenya’s Hunger for Success
Despite the automatic qualification, the Harambee Stars are not taking these qualifiers lightly. Coach Engin Firat has stressed the importance of maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring that the players remain sharp.
The squad selected for this fixture reflects a blend of experienced returnees, such as KCB goalkeeper Farouk Shikalo and Kenya Police defender Musa Mohammed, as well as promising new talents like Ibrahim Wanzala from Kakamega Homeboyz and Issa Lumumba of Ulinzi Stars.
Shikalo and Mohammed return to the national fold after a long absence, adding both skill and leadership to the squad. Their inclusion will boost the confidence of the team as they face a determined South Sudan side eager to make a mark in regional football.
New Faces to Watch
Several new players have been called up, signaling a fresh approach by Firat. These players include Brian Eshihanda from Kakamega Homeboyz, Bernard Ondiek from Posta Rangers, and Matthias Isogol of Mara Sugar.
All eyes will also be on Shabana’s Mathew Tegisi and Andreas Odhiambo of Kariobangi Sharks, who have impressed in the domestic league and will be keen to replicate that form on the international stage.
The mix of young talent and experienced campaigners reflects a team that is both preparing for immediate success and building for the future. Kenya’s local-based squad is expected to compete fiercely, and their performance in the qualifiers could help cement their spots in the 2025 CHAN tournament squad.
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Key Players to Watch
While the entire squad brings something unique to the table, there are several key players to watch during the qualifiers.
- Musa Mohammed: A stalwart defender with years of experience in the Kenyan Premier League and national team, Mohammed’s leadership will be crucial in keeping the defense organized and resilient.
- Farouk Shikalo: Shikalo’s return to the national team is highly anticipated. Known for his quick reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, he will be a key figure between the posts.
- Vincent Owino: The Nairobi City Stars midfielder has been in excellent form domestically and will be expected to dictate the pace of the game in the middle of the park.
- Boniface Muchiri: A consistent performer for Ulinzi Stars, Muchiri has the ability to change games with his pace and technical ability. His role in the midfield will be pivotal to Kenya’s attacking play.
Harambee Stars Squad Announced for 2024 CHAN Qualifiers Against South Sudanhttps://t.co/E2UdUbsq0n pic.twitter.com/bCkYzGvxIb
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) October 24, 2024
CECAFA’s Additional Spot: A Chance for Glory
The CHAN tournament in 2025 will mark a historic moment for East African football as it will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
This is the first time in the tournament’s history that three nations will share hosting duties, showcasing the growth of football in the region.
As a result, CAF has granted the CECAFA region an additional qualification spot, meaning more teams from East Africa will be represented in the prestigious tournament.
For Kenya, this is a golden opportunity not only to prove their dominance in the region but also to build momentum heading into the 2025 CHAN competition.
Qualifying teams will benefit from valuable experience, which could make a difference when the tournament officially kicks off next year.
The Road Ahead
The first leg of the CHAN qualifier will be a stern test for the Harambee Stars. Playing away in Juba on 27 October 2024, Kenya will need to manage the intense atmosphere and hostile environment expected at Juba International Stadium.
A positive result in the away fixture would set them up nicely for the return leg at Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium on 3 November 2024.
Should Kenya emerge victorious over the two legs, they will progress to the final qualification stage, where they will face either Djibouti or Rwanda in December 2024.
Securing a win in the qualifiers will provide a major confidence boost as they prepare for the main tournament next year.
Final Squad for CHAN Qualifier
- Goalkeepers: Byrne Odhiambo (Bandari), Farouk Shikalo (KCB), Ibrahim Wanzala (Kakamega Homeboyz)
- Defenders: Musa Mohammed (Kenya Police FC), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia), Geoffrey Ochieng (Gor Mahia), Bernard Ondiek (Posta Rangers), Brian Eshihanda (Kakamega Homeboyz), Daniel Sakari (Kenya Police FC)
- Midfielders: Vincent Owino (Nairobi City Stars), Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police FC), Kenneth Muguna (Kenya Police FC), Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Issa Lumumba (Ulinzi Stars), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Chrispine Erambo (Tusker FC), Matthias Isogol (Mara Sugar), Andreas Odhiambo (Kariobangi Sharks)
- Forwards: Victor Omune (AFC Leopards), Sydney Lokale (AFC Leopards), Mathew Tegisi (Shabana), Patrick Otieno (KCB)
