Harambee Stars: Olunga, Okumu among 7 expected to link up with squad in Turkey
Harambee Stars’ preparations for their upcoming friendly against Russia received a boost as key players from abroad are expected at the camp in Turkey this Tuesday.
The team is set to hold its second training session, with the addition of several foreign-based stars.
Harambee Stars captain expected in camp
Captain Michael Olunga, Eric Ouma, Joseph Okumu, and Brian Mandela are among the players expected to join the squad on Tuesday.
Also en route to Turkey are Collins Sichenje, Masoud Juma, and debutant Rooney Onyango, who are also anticipated to arrive on Tuesday.
Johnstone Omurwa and Ayub Timbe are expected in camp by Thursday, ensuring the squad reaches its full complement.
The initial batch of 14 players traveled on Monday and conducted their first training session on Tuesday morning.
This group included Patrick Matasi, Brian Bwire, Bryne Odhiambo, Daniel Sakari, Vincent Harper, Amos Nondi, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Alpha Onyango, Ovella Ochieng, Alfred Scriven, Cliffton Miheso, and Moses Shummah.
Harambee Stars matches
Harambee Stars are entering this match following the lifting of their FIFA suspension and recent participation in matches against Iran, a four-nation tournament in Mauritius, as well as games against Qatar and South Sudan.
Looking ahead, Harambee Stars will return to international competitive action in November for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Placed in Group F alongside Seychelles, Burundi, Gambia, Gabon, and Côte d’Ivoire, the first leg of these qualifiers is scheduled from November 13 to November 21, 2023.
In this competition, the group winners will secure direct qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Additionally, the four best runners-up from the groups will advance to the CAF Play-Off tournament, where the ultimate victor will earn a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.