Kenya name Michael Olunga in 27-man squad for crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against South Africa

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has selected a 27-player squad for the decisive 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against South Africa, with captain and leading striker Michael Olunga included.

The Harambee Stars will face the Bafana Bafana away on 13 November 2026 at Orlando Stadium before hosting the return fixture on 17 November at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium.

McCarthy, a former South Africa international, has combined home-based players with Kenyan footballers playing abroad for the two matches.

Olunga, who plays for Al-Arabi, leads the attack. The forward will be joined by Job Ochieng of Real Sociedad, Mohammed Bajaber of Nairobi United, Will Lenkupae of Tulsa, Adam Wilson of The New Saints, Ben Stanley of Gor Mahia, Ryan Ogam of RFC Liege and Micah Obiero of Carlisle United.

The full Kenya squad is:

Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi (Gor Mahia), Brian Bwire (Tusker), Faruk Shikalo (Nairobi United)

Defenders: Abud Omar (Tusker), Frank Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Amos Wanjala (Valencia), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Eric Marcelo Ouma (Rakow Czestochowa), Stanley Wilson (AIK), Vincent Harper (Exeter City), Rooney Onyango (Sogndal), Hannif Wesonga (Jamus FC)

Midfielders: Manzur Okwaro (Stade de Reims), Alwyn Tera (Ararat-Armenia), Henry Ochieng (Slough Town), Zak Vyner (Wrexham)

Forwards: Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad), Mohammed Bajaber (Nairobi United), Will Lenkupae (Tulsa), Adam Wilson (The New Saints), Ben Stanley (Gor Mahia), Michael Olunga (Al-Arabi), Ryan Ogam (RFC Liege), Micah Obiero (Carlisle United)

The first meeting will take place in South Africa on 13 November, with Kenya aiming to secure a strong result before the return match in Nairobi four days later.