Kenya’s Head Coach Benni McCarthy has announced the Harambee Stars squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Madagascar and Comoros, to be played in Antalya, Turkey, during the FIFA window from November 10 to 18, 2025.
The matches are designed to strengthen Kenya’s preparations ahead of next year’s qualification fixtures, as McCarthy continues to build a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level.
The 28-man squad showcases a perfect blend of rising stars and seasoned players. One of the biggest highlights is Aldrine Kibet’s first-ever call-up to the senior national team following his impressive performances at Celta Vigo’s youth setup.
Another headline inclusion is Ovella Ochieng, who returns to the national side after a long absence, bringing creativity and attacking pace back to Kenya’s front line.
In defense, Baron Ochieng of Zamalek has earned his place after consistent performances in Egypt, while dependable figures like Vincent Harper and Michael Kibwage maintain their spots.
Full Harambee Stars Squad
Goalkeepers:
Byrne Omondi (Gor Mahia), Brian Bwire (Polokwane City), Brian Opondo (Tusker FC)
Defenders:
Vincent Harper (Walsall), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Étoile du Sahel), Michael Kibwage (Gor Mahia), Ronney Onyango (Sogndal), Manzur Suleiman (Nairobi United), Baron Ochieng (Zamalek)
Midfielders:
Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Timothy Ouma (Lech Poznań), Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police FC)
Attackers:
Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), William Lenkupae (VPS), Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Adam Wilson (New Saints), Aldrine Kibet (Celta Vigo), Ovella Ochieng (Nairobi United), Jonah Ayunga (St Mirren), Ryan Ogam (Wolfsberger), Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinajoki)
Strategic Preparation for 2026
Coach McCarthy emphasized that the upcoming fixtures are not just friendlies but key opportunities to test new combinations, assess tactical systems, and build depth ahead of the World Cup and AFCON qualifiers.
The selection of youthful talents such as Kibet, Ogam, and Abuya signals McCarthy’s focus on the long-term vision of rejuvenating the Harambee Stars. Meanwhile, returning veterans like Ovella and Kibwage bring leadership and composure.
The team is expected to camp in Antalya a few days before the matches to acclimatize and work on match readiness.
Outlook
With the Madagascar match scheduled for November 14 and the Comoros game set for November 17 or 18, Kenya will be looking to test their form, assess new talents, and refine their approach under McCarthy’s guidance.
If the team continues to blend energy with experience as seen in this latest call-up, Harambee Stars could be on track for a strong campaign heading into 2026.
