McCarthy makes more changes to Harambee Stars starting XI facing Madagascar
By Luke Oluoch, August 22, 2025Harambee Stars head coach Benedict Saul McCarthy has unveiled his starting eleven to face Madagascar in the quarterfinals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 this Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Moi Kasarani Stadium.
The clash slated for 5:00 pm will see star man Austine Odhiambo start from the substitute bench.
The two-goal hero in the championship so far has been snubbed, with McCarthy opting for more bodies in the midfield. Alpha Onyango and Mansur Suleiman are among those who will fill the department.
Changes galore
Meanwhile, the team backline has seen two changes made, with Alphonce Omija returning to partner Kibwage at the centre of the defense. The two will play in front of Bryene Omondi as the team’s last line of defense.
Abud Omar will play as the left back as Lewis Bandi replaces Daniel Sakari on right back duties.
Sylvester Owino, a regular in all of Kenya’s matches in the group stages, is among the surprise misses. The Gor Mahia ace has been relegated to the bench too.
On the attacking unit, McCarthy has entrusted the goal-getting duties to an in-form Ryan Ogam, who has scored two goals in the tournament, including the winning goal against Zambia that secured Kenya’s progression as Group A winners.
Ulinzi Stars winger Boniface Muchiri and Ben Stanley will provide the ammunition.
Kenya’s Starting XI:
Goalkeeper Bryne Omondi, Abud Omar, Mike Evans Kibwage, Alphonce Omija, Alphas Chris Onyango, Bonface Muchiri Lewis Bandi Ryan Ogam, Manzur Suleiman, Stanley Omondi, Marvin Omondi