Harambee Stars Name Final Squad for Away World Cup Qualifiers Against Burundi and Ivory Coast
Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, have announced their final squad for the concluding fixtures of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Benni McCarthy has selected 25 players to face Burundi on October 9 and Ivory Coast on October 14—both matches to be played away from home.
While Kenya is mathematically out of contention for a spot at the 2026 World Cup, the team is determined to finish the campaign with pride, showcasing resilience and national spirit against two formidable opponents.
Notable Return: Austine Odhiambo Recalled
One of the headline inclusions is Gor Mahia midfielder Austine Odhiambo, who returns to the squad after being omitted from the previous international break. His re-inclusion adds creative depth to a midfield already featuring Richard Odada, Kenneth Muguna, and Alpha Onyango.
🎙️ Coach’s Perspective
Coach McCarthy emphasized the importance of finishing strong: “We may be out of the race, but these matches are about character. We’re playing for pride, for the badge, and for the fans who’ve stood by us.”
📅 Fixture Details
- October 9 – Kenya 🇰🇪 vs Burundi 🇧🇮 (Away)
- October 14 – Kenya 🇰🇪 vs Ivory Coast 🇨🇮 (Away)
