Kenya coach Benni McCarthy has unveiled his final squad for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches this month, trimming down the list to the required 23-man squad.
The Harambee Stars will travel to face Gambia at Stade Alassane Ouattara, Ivory Coast on March 20 before hosting Gabon at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi on March 23, 2025.
Kenya initially opened camp for the two upcoming games on March 12 with a provisional squad. After several training sessions, the former Manchester United assistant coach has reduced the squad to the required 23-man list.
Benni McCarthy made bold decisions, dropping Australian-born midfielder William Lenkupae, who had drawn significant attention.
Other players dropped from the squad included Gor Mahia’s in-form midfielder Austin Odhiambo, alongside teammates Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Lawrence Juma, and Alpha Onyango.
Kenya sits fourth in the group standings with five points, trailing leaders Ivory Coast (10 points). A strong performance in these matches is crucial to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Final 23-Man Squad
Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikhalo
Defenders: Jonstone Omurwa, Brian Mandela, Daniel Anyembe, Amos Nondi, Erick Ouma, Manzur Okwaro, Ronny Onyango
Midfielders: Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Ismael Gonzalez, Timothy Ouma, Eric Johana, Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanley Omondi
Forwards: Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia, John Avire, Michael Olunga
