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Harambee Stars midfielder Kenneth Muguna has expressed the squad’s readiness ahead of the upcoming international friendly match against Russia, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Turkey, on Monday, October 16, 2023.

This match serves as the final test before the commencement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, set to kick off in November of this year.

Harambee Stars confidence

Muguna, who is currently playing for Kenya Police, emphasized the team’s confidence, considering that this is their third high-profile friendly match of the year.

He believes that after this match, Harambee Stars will be fully prepared to tackle the upcoming qualifiers.

“This is the third high-profile friendly match we have played this year. We feel ready, and I am hopeful that come next month, we shall be fully ready for the qualifiers,” stated midfielder Muguna.

Harambee Stars’ journey to this match follows the lifting of their FIFA suspension and recent participation in matches against Iran, engagement in a four-nation tournament in Mauritius, and fixtures against Qatar and South Sudan.

Looking ahead, Harambee Stars will make their return to international competitive action in November for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

Harambee Stars pool

They have been placed in Group F, where they will contend with Seychelles, Burundi, Gambia, Gabon, and Côte d’Ivoire. The first leg of these qualifiers is scheduled to be played 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.

This marks the return of the Kenyan national team to CAF and FIFA competitions after a year-long FIFA suspension, and they are eager to make their mark on the international stage.