Summary
- Kenya’s final 25-man squad for CHAN 2024 has been named, blending local league veterans with exciting debutants.
- All Group A matches will be played at Kasarani, where Harambee Stars face DR Congo, Angola, Morocco, and Zambia.
- Head coach Benni McCarthy is banking on home support, squad chemistry, and tactical discipline to make a historic CHAN debut.
Nairobi, Kenya- With the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) just days away, head coach Benni McCarthy has unveiled the 25 men tasked with leading Kenya into uncharted football territory.
From fresh faces to familiar stalwarts, this squad blends raw ambition with battle-tested grit — and it might just be our best shot at CHAN glory yet.
Let’s take a closer look at the full team, the thinking behind key selections, and what it says about Kenya’s game plan heading into this historic home tournament.
Kenya’s trio of goalkeepers brings a balance of experience, agility, and calm under pressure.
- Faruk Shikhalo – the ever-reliable veteran and clear first-choice
- Byrne Omondi – a composed presence who adds leadership
- Sebastian Wekesa – youthful, sharp, and pushing for minutes
Shikhalo, with his commanding voice and lightning reflexes, is expected to anchor the backline. But don’t rule out Wekesa making a case if rotation is needed.
Defence: Where Grit Meets Growth
This is arguably the most interesting section of the squad. McCarthy has gone for a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars.
Key veterans:
- Abud Omar – captain, left-back, and a locker-room general
- Daniel Sakari – versatile and tireless on the right flank
- Alphonce Omija – calm, consistent, and named vice-captain
Youth injection:
- Manzur Suleiman – standout from the U20 AFCON team
- Pamba Swaleh, Lewis Bandi, and Kevin Okumu – all debutants with big-game potential
With defenders like Siraj Mohammed, Sylvester Owino, and Michael Kibwage adding spine and strength, McCarthy has options — whether he wants to keep it tight or push fullbacks high.
Midfield Engine Room: Steady, Stylish, and Strategic
If Kenya makes it out of Group A, much of the credit will go to this midfield.
- Marvin Nabwire – the beating heart of the squad
- Brian Musa and Alpha Onyango – composed and intelligent ball players
- Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley – technical and aggressive
- Newcomer alert: Austine Odongo brings flair and unpredictability
McCarthy seems to be aiming for versatility — players who can switch between formations and press with intensity.
Attack: The New-Look Kenyan Firepower
This is where things get spicy. Kenya’s forward line feels like a calculated gamble — a mix of reputation, redemption, and raw hunger.
- Masoud Juma – back in the local scene and already under the spotlight
- Boniface Muchiri and Mohammed Bajaber – clinical, pacey wide threats
- Ryan Ogam – 15-goal hero from Tusker, ready to explode on the big stage
- Felix Oluoch, David Sakwa, and Austin Odongo – the kind of names most fans will Google, then remember for years
McCarthy isn’t just picking big names. He’s picking form, potential, and hunger — and that could be the X-factor.
McCarthy’s Vision: Why This Squad Matters
From the friendly matches at Nyayo to the surprise call-ups and last-minute tweaks, there’s a clear philosophy behind this team. McCarthy is building a group that believes in itself.
“There’s real hunger in this team,” he said. “Every player wants to represent Kenya at CHAN, and that competitiveness is healthy.”
With all Group A games at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and a home crowd at their back, this squad isn’t just representing Kenya — they’re carrying hopes of rewriting football history.
Final Thoughts
Is this the strongest Harambee Stars squad in recent memory? On paper, maybe not. But in heart, hunger, and chemistry — possibly yes.
The road won’t be easy. DR Congo, Morocco, Angola, and Zambia are no walk in the park. But with a home crowd, a smart coach, and a carefully curated 25-man squad, Benni’s Boys might just surprise the continent.
Want more CHAN 2024 insights?
Check out our exclusive CHAN 2024 updates as we follow the Stars every step of the way.