Harambee Stars fans were left surprised after CHAN joint-top scorer Austin Odhiambo was omitted from Kenya’s final 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Seychelles and the Gambia. Head coach Benni McCarthy confirmed the list on Wednesday, with the matches set for September 5 and 9 at Kasarani Stadium.
Why Was Austin Odhiambo Left Out?
Odhiambo, who missed the CHAN quarter-final defeat to Madagascar, was one of the most consistent performers during the tournament but has not made the cut. McCarthy instead leaned on other CHAN standouts, including Daniel Sakari, Siraj Mohammed, Chrispine Erambo, and striker Massoud Juma. His omission raised eyebrows, especially since he was among the team’s most reliable scorers.
Which Key Players Are Returning?
The squad sees the return of captain Michael Olunga, who missed Kenya’s May friendlies against Chad due to injury. Olunga will lead the attack alongside Tusker’s Ryan Ogam, Zambia-based Emmanuel Osoro, Will Lenkupae, Boniface Muchiri, and Real Sociedad B’s teenage forward Job Ochieng.
McCarthy also recalled nine foreign-based players who were unavailable for CHAN, including Collins Sichenje, Timothy Ouma, Richard Odada, Brian Bwire, and Rooney Onyango.
Who Will Be Missed Most?
One of the biggest blows is the absence of seasoned left-back Marcelo Ouma, currently sidelined in Sweden after undergoing surgery on his achilles tendon. McCarthy admitted his loss will be hard to cover, saying the injury leaves “a big hole” in the team’s tactical setup.
In goal, Gor Mahia’s Bryne Omondi and Bandari’s Farouk Shikhalo keep their places, joined by South Africa-based Brian Bwire. The midfield mix features Alpha Onyango, Duke Abuya, Ben Stanley Omondi, and KCB rising star Mansur Okwaro, among others.
Kenya sits fourth in Group F with six points, ten behind leaders Ivory Coast. Although World Cup qualification is out of reach, McCarthy sees the qualifiers as vital preparation for the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
By Yockshard Enyendi