Kenya: Benni McCarthy names final squad for South Africa AFCON qualifiers

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has named his final squad for the Harambee Stars’ upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against South Africa.

The South African tactician has selected a squad featuring a blend of local and foreign-based players as Kenya prepare for two crucial encounters against Bafana Bafana.

The first meeting will take place on November 13 at the Orlando Stadium in South Africa, before the two sides travel to Nairobi for the return fixture on November 17 at the Nyayo Stadium.

McCarthy has included three goalkeepers in his squad, with Byrne Omondi of Gor Mahia, Brian Bwire of Tusker and Faruk Shikalo of Nairobi United making the final selection.

The defensive department features Abud Omar, Frank Odhiambo, Amos Wanjala, Sylvester Owino, Eric Marcelo Ouma, Stanley Wilson, Vincent Harper, Ronney Onyango and Hannif Wesonga.

In midfield, McCarthy has called up Manzur Okwaro, Alwyn Tera, Henry Ochieng and Zak Vyner, who plays for English club Wrexham.

The attacking department has eight players, including Job Ochieng, Mohammed Bajaber, Will Lenkupae, Adam Wilson, Ben Stanley, Michael Olunga, Ryan Ogam and Micah Obiero.

Olunga, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Arabi, is among the notable names in the squad and will be expected to provide experience and attacking quality as Kenya look to secure positive results against their southern African opponents.

Other foreign-based players include Job Ochieng of Real Sociedad, Will Lenkupae of Tulsa, Adam Wilson of New Saints, Manzur Okwaro of Stade Reims, Alwyn Tera of Ararat-Armenia and Eric Marcelo Ouma of Polish side RKS Rakow.

The two fixtures present McCarthy with an important opportunity to strengthen Kenya’s position in the race for qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

With the first encounter scheduled for Johannesburg and the return match in Nairobi, the Harambee Stars will be hoping to make home advantage count while also delivering a competitive performance away from home.