Engin Firat, the head coach of Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has announced the provisional squad set to compete in the crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia. These pivotal matches, scheduled between September 2-10, 2024, will be a defining moment for Kenya as they aim to secure their spot in the continental tournament.
The squad, which reflects a thoughtful mix of local talent and internationally-based players, has already generated considerable discussion among fans and analysts alike. The exclusion of prominent players Ayub Timbe and Daniel Anyembe has been particularly surprising, raising questions and speculation about the rationale behind their omission. While Firat has yet to publicly address these decisions, the absence of these two influential figures has left many wondering about the team’s strategy and dynamics moving forward.
Kenya’s AFCON qualifying campaign will begin with a challenging encounter against Zimbabwe on Friday, September 6, at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Uganda. This match is crucial, as a strong start could set the tone for the rest of the qualifiers. Following the Zimbabwe fixture, Harambee Stars will travel to South Africa to face Namibia, a team known for its resilience and tactical discipline.
Leading the squad is team captain Michael Olunga, a player who has consistently demonstrated his importance to the team’s success. Olunga, who plays his club football in Qatar, has been a talismanic figure for Harambee Stars, and his leadership on and off the pitch will be vital in these high-stakes matches. Alongside him, the squad features several key international players who are expected to bolster the team’s performance.
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Joseph Okumu, who currently plays for Reims in France, is one of the standout names on the roster. His defensive prowess and experience in European football are invaluable assets to the team. Another key player is Eric Ouma, who has been making waves with his performances for Rakow in Poland. Ouma’s versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a critical component of Firat’s strategy.
Richard Odada, who plies his trade with Dundee United in Scotland, is another international star who will be instrumental in the midfield. His ability to control the tempo of the game and distribute the ball effectively will be crucial in helping Kenya maintain possession and create scoring opportunities.
Firat has also placed his trust in a trio of goalkeepers who bring a wealth of experience and reliability to the squad. Ian Otieno, currently with Richards Bay FC in South Africa, has been a consistent performer for Harambee Stars. He is joined by Patrick Matasi of Kenya Police and Byrne Omondi from Bandari, both of whom have proven their worth in domestic competitions. The goalkeeping unit’s stability is expected to be a cornerstone of Kenya’s defensive setup in the upcoming matches.
In addition to the internationally-based players, the squad includes several domestic talents who have been making a name for themselves in the Kenyan Premier League. Kayci Odhiambo from AFC Leopards and Ronney Onyango of Gor Mahia are among the young players who have earned their place in the national team. Their inclusion highlights Firat’s commitment to developing local talent and integrating it with more experienced international players.
John Avire, who plays for St. Mirren in Scotland, and Jonah Ayunga, also based in Scotland, are expected to add depth to the team’s attacking options. Alongside Benson Omalla from Safa SC, these players will be tasked with leading the charge in front of goal and converting chances into crucial goals.
The announcement of this squad reflects Firat’s strategic approach to balancing experience with youth, and international exposure with local talent. However, the omission of Ayub Timbe and Daniel Anyembe continues to be a talking point, with fans eagerly awaiting any insights from Firat regarding these decisions.
As Harambee Stars prepare for their AFCON qualifying campaign, the pressure is on to deliver results. The squad’s composition suggests that Firat is building a team capable of competing at the highest level, but the real test will come when they step onto the pitch in Uganda and South Africa. The upcoming matches will not only determine Kenya’s path to the 2025 AFCON but also provide a glimpse into the future direction of the national team under Firat’s leadership.
