Harambee Stars starting XI vs Gabon: Dennis Ng’ang’a starts, Aboud Omar & Amos Nondi at full-back as Firat opts for experience

FOOTBALL Harambee Stars starting XI vs Gabon: Dennis Ng’ang’a starts, Aboud Omar & Amos Nondi at full-back as Firat opts for experience

Joel Omotto 20:00 - 16.11.2023

Zanaco defender Dennis Ng'ang'a is the biggest beneficiary of Harambee Stars' defensive injuries as he will start alongside Johnstone Omurwa at centre-back against Gabon

Former Gor Mahia defender Dennis Ng’ang’a is the biggest beneficiary of the injuries in the Harambee Stars backline as he is set to start alongside Johnstone Omurwa at the heart of Kenya’s defence against Gabon in Thursday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier.

The Zanaco defender will play alongside Omurwa in the absence of Joseph Okumu while Kenya Police defender Aboud Omar will start at right-back as Amos Nondi slots in at left-back.

Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has opted to go for experience in the face of the major absences at the back with goalkeeper Patrick Matasi between the sticks following the injury suffered by Bryne Odhiambo last month while retaining his trusted midfield three of Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada and Kenneth Muguna.

In attack, captain Michael Olunga will lead the line with Gor Mahia youngster Rooney Onyango and Masoud Juma on the wings.

Kenya are looking for a positive start against Gabon and are counting on their recent good run to push them through.

Kenya’s starting XI vs Gabon: Patrick Matasi, Aboud Omar, Dennis Ng’ang’a, Johstone Omurwa, Amos Nondi, Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Kenneth Muguna, Rooney Onyango, Masoud Juma & Michael Olunga