McCarthy shakes up lineup as key stars dropped for Morocco showdown
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 10, 2025McCarthy has made a bold statement by benching several regulars from the side that faced Angola, including captain Omar Aboud, right-back Daniel Sakari, Alphonce Omija, midfield maestro Austin Odhiambo, and Alpha Onyango.
In their place, McCarthy has opted for a mix of fresh legs and tactical reshuffles. Siraj Mohammed comes in at right-back, Mike Kibwage returns to partner Sylvester Owino in central defence, and Lewis Bandi, while Chrispine Erambo slots into midfield. Ben Stanley starts in the playmaker role, and Ryan Ogam replaces Austine to add a more direct attacking threat.
Starting XI:
Omondi (GK), Siraj, Kibwage (C), S. Owino, Bandi, S. Manzur, Erambo, Stanley, Ogam, Omondi, Boniface.
Substitutes
Faruk, Abud, Omija, Michira, Onyango, Odongo, Austine, Oluoch, Sakwa, Okumu, Sakari, Wekesa.
Kenya go into the game with four points from two matches, following a 1-0 victory over DR Congo and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Angola. Morocco, on the other hand, are coming off a week’s rest and a convincing 2-0 win over Angola, making them one of the most dangerous sides in the tournament.
McCarthy demands fast start
Speaking ahead of the match, McCarthy stressed the importance of avoiding another slow start, after Kenya found themselves both a goal and a man down early against Angola. He acknowledged the fatigue in his squad but believes the players are ready to deliver.
“When you play on Thursday and then have to go again two days later, it’s like another marathon,” he said. “We’re recovering the players as best as we can. Morocco is very tough, organised and disciplined, probably the strongest team in our group and even in the competition.”
With Morocco considered the strongest team in Group A, Harambee Stars will be counting on home support to carry them through. Over 40,000 fans are expected at Kasarani, hoping to see their side remain unbeaten and book a historic spot in the CHAN quarter-finals.
A win would seal top spot in the group, but even a draw would be enough to progress, something McCarthy is keenly aware of, but not relying on. The stage is set for a high-stakes battle as Kenya take on Morocco in front of a roaring home crowd.