Kenyan midfielder handed South Sudan national team call up

©Kenya Police

FOOTBALL Kenyan midfielder handed South Sudan national team call up

Festus Chuma 06:33 - 01.03.2024

The Kenyan-based midfielder is among six chosen for South Sudan's team for 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Sao Tome and Principe.

Kenya Police FC midfielder Charles Ouma is among six Kenyan-based players who have received the honor of being called up to the South Sudan national team for the preliminary round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sao Tome and Principe.

The 20-year-old midfield dynamo first caught the eye of the national selectors in July 2023, when he was called up to the Kenya national team, Harambee Stars, by coach Engin Firat for the Four Nations tournament in Mauritius.

Despite not making an appearance in the tournament, Ouma's potential was undeniable, leading him to switch allegiance to South Sudan, where he aims to make a substantial impact.

Before his rise to international recognition, Ouma's journey began at Sindo United, from where he moved to Kenya Police in 2020. 

Standing tall in midfield, he possesses the versatility to play both defensively and in a central attacking role. 

His contributions were pivotal in helping Kenya Police secure promotion to the top flight, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and contribute to his team's success.

South Sudan, Africa's newest nation, is gearing up for the qualifiers with a strong contingent of players based in Kenya. 

In addition to Ouma, the South Sudanese squad features five other players based in Kenya: Toha Rashid, a defender from Kenya Police; Assad Musa, a midfielder from AFC Leopards; Arap Koul, a midfielder from Martis FC; Tito Okello, a striker from Kenya Police; and Paul America Jawa from Rainbow FC. 

The Bright Stars journey begins on March 20th when they travel to Sao Tome for the first leg of the qualifiers. 

The return leg is scheduled for March 26th, with the venue yet to be announced. 

This timing aligns with the next FIFA window, ensuring that the matches fall within the international schedule and allowing for proper preparation and rest between games.

Paul America Jawa, another standout player, has been instrumental in South Sudan's U20 campaigns, including their participation in the U20 AFCON in Egypt in 2023.

 His experience at the youth level will undoubtedly benefit the senior team as they aim to advance beyond the preliminary round and join the group stage of the tournament.

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