Nairobi, August 28, 2023 – Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has unveiled a 25-man provisional squad set to take on Qatar away on September 7, 2023 and against South Sudan at home on September 12, 2023.
The squad presents a compelling blend of both homegrown and internationally-based talents, forming a cohesive unit that promises an exciting display of Kenyan football prowess.
Among the standout foreign-based players are the team captain, Michael Olunga, who plies his trade in Qatar, as well as Masud Juma in Saudi Arabia, Ian Otieno in Zambia, Joseph Okumu in France, Brian Mandela in South Africa, Johnstone Omurwa in Portugal, Eric Ouma in Sweden, Amos Nondi in Armenia, Richard Odada in Denmark, and Teddy Akumu in Japan.
The selection also marks the return of Ayub Timbe Masika, now competing in China, Clarke Oduor in England, and Timothy Omondi, currently active in Sweden, back to the squad. Their presence adds depth and experience to the team’s ranks.
Harambee Stars Coach Engin Firat has named the provisional squad for the two upcoming friendlies against Qatar, the hosts of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, in an away match on September 7, 2023, and South Sudan at home on September 12, 2023.
— Football Kenya Federation (@Football_Kenya) August 28, 2023
The squad isn’t short of international talent with Kenyan roots who have made their mark in Europe. Noteworthy additions include Danish-born defender Daniel Anyembe, previously at the helm of Denmark’s U-23 national team and Alfred Scriven, showcasing his skills for IL Hødd in Norway, both of whom have once again received call-ups to represent their roots.
Inclusions in the squad also extend to Kenya Police forward Elvis Rupia and David Ochieng, a fellow forward, who are poised to make an impact.
Abud Omar of Kenya Police and Moses Shummah from Kakamega Homeboyz retain their well-deserved spots on the roster.
The selected players are expected to report to the training camp on Sunday, September 3, 2023. This early gathering allows for focused preparation and bonding ahead of the challenging encounters against Qatar and South Sudan.
The announcement of the squad comes amid mounting anticipation following Harambee Stars’ placement in Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, a factor that adds further importance to these upcoming friendlies.
Fans and football enthusiasts eagerly await the outcomes of these matches, which offer a tantalizing glimpse into the team’s potential as they gear up for future campaigns on the global stage.
Provisional Squad:
Goalkeepers:
Ian Otieno (Zesco, Zambia), Byrne Odhiambo (KCB), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police FC)
Defenders:
Collins Sichenje (AIK, Sweden), Joseph Okumu (Stade Reims, France), Brian Mandela (Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa), Johnstone Omurwa (Estrela, Portugal), David Ochieng (Kenya Police), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg, Denmark), Eric Ouma (AIK, Sweden), Amos Nondi (Ararat, Armenia), Abud Omar (Kenya Police), Clarke Oduor (England)
Midfielders:
Richard Odada (AaB, Denmark), Teddy Akumu (Sagan Tosu, Japan), Kenneth Muguna (Kenya Police), Timothy Ouma (IF Elfsborg, Sweden), Duke Abuya (Singida Fountain Gate, Tanzania), Abdallah Hassan (Bandari), Ayub Masika (Nanjing City Football Club, China), Alfred Scriven (IL Hødd, Norway)
Forwards:
Moses Shummah (Kakamega Homeboyz), Elvis Rupia (Kenya Police), Michael Olunga (Al Duhail, Qatar), Masud Juma (Al Jabalain, Saudi Arabia)