Coach Engin Firat unveils Harambee Stars 24-man final squad for Cameroon double encounter
Harambee Stars Head Coach Engin Firat has unveiled his 24-man final squad set to lock horns with Cameroon on Friday, October 11, 2024, at Ahmadou Ahidjo Omnisports Stadium in Yaounde, followed by the return leg on Monday, October 14, 2024, at Mandela National Stadium in Uganda.
The Turkish gaffer’s squad features local and foreign-based players who played a crucial role in the team’s 2-1 victory over Namibia and the 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in the previous encounter.
Firat men will be led by skipper Michael Olunga who makes a comeback to the fold after missing the previous matches due to an injury. The national team captain announced his readiness for the country’s duty by bagging a goal 14 minutes into his return from injury for his Al Dhuail side in their 2-0 triumph over Al Wakrah in the Qatar Stars League.
Besides Olunga, Firat’s team has also been bolstered by the return of Alfred Scriven after a long absence with Adam Wilson earning his second call-up for the national team assignment.
Those dropped from the squad include the Gor Mahia’s midfield maestro Austine Odhiambo who suffered an injury during training.
Others include Tusker midfielder David Odoyo, Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri and AFC Leopards forward Sydney Lokale.
Harambee Stars travel to face Cameroon with their hopes high having registered positive results at the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Kenya, currently leading their qualification group with four points, is facing Cameroon, who also have four points, in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
Cameroon side
The Indomitable Lions boasts several top players from leagues around the world who are likely to pose a threat to Harambee Stars.
Their main striker Vincent Aboubakar who plays for Turkish Super Lig club Hatayspor is among those expected to unsettle Kenya’s defence line.
Others include Brentford United winger Bryan Mbeumo, Napoli midfielder Zambo Anguissa and Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana.
However, Harambee Stars skipper Olunga indicated that the team is well prepared for tough test against Cameroon.
Final Squad
Goalkeepers
Ian Otieno, Patrick Matasi, Byrne Omondi
Defenders
Alphonce Omija, Daniel Anyembe , Amos Nondi, Sylvester Owino, Johnstone Omurwa, Collins Sichenje, Joseph Okumu, Geoffrey Ochieng, Eric Ouma
Midfielders
Chrispine Erambo, Richard Odada, John Ochieng, Timothy Ouma, Anthony Akumu, Duke Abuya, Ronney Onyango
Forwards
John Avire, Michael Olunga, Jonah Ayunga, Adam Wilson, Alfred Scriven