Kenya’s national football team coach, Benni McCarthy, has named a 25-man squad for the upcoming CECAFA Four-Nation Tournament, scheduled to take place in Tanzania from July 21 to July 27, 2025.

The tournament will serve as a key preparation platform for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in August.

The announcement was made via the Harambee Stars’ official X account on Saturday, July 19, 2025, setting the stage for Kenya’s regional campaign. McCarthy’s selection reflects a balance between experienced players and emerging local talents, aligning with CHAN’s focus on home-based footballers.

Strong defence and creative midfield

In the goalkeeping department, McCarthy has called up Byrne Omondi, Faruk Shikalo, and Sepstianos Wekesa to guard the posts. The defence features a mix of youth and experience, including Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Pamba Swaleh, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Michael Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, and Kevin Okumu.

This defensive lineup provides depth and versatility, giving the technical bench multiple options for different game situations.

The midfield has been tasked with providing both creativity and stability. Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire, and Boniface Muchiri have been included to control possession and drive the team forward. Their role will be crucial in linking the defense and attack, as well as managing the game’s tempo.

Potent attack and tournament fixtures

The forward line is packed with dynamic options. Masud Juma, Felix Oluoch, Austin Odongo, Mohammed Bajaber, David Sakwa, and Ryan Ogam have been selected to lead Kenya’s attack. Their responsibility will be to convert chances into goals and exploit defensive weaknesses in the opposition.

Kenya will kick off the tournament against Uganda on Monday, July 21, followed by a highly anticipated fixture against hosts Tanzania on Thursday, July 24. The group stage will conclude with a match against Senegal on Sunday, July 27. All matches are set to take place at Karatu Stadium in Arusha.

Building for CHAN 2024

The CECAFA Four-Nation Tournament provides the Harambee Stars technical team with an opportunity to test tactical formations and assess player readiness ahead of CHAN 2024. Senegal, the reigning CHAN champions, joins Uganda and Tanzania in the tournament after replacing Congo Brazzaville in the lineup.

McCarthy’s squad selection signals Kenya’s intent to solidify team chemistry and sharpen its competitive edge before the continental showpiece early next year.