FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Harambee Stars' Probable Lineup Against Gambia

Kenya will enter the field with a mix of tested strategies and new faces when they host The Gambia in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers this Friday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The Harambee Stars approach the fixture with confidence, buoyed by recent results that have restored belief among fans and players alike.

Kenya currently sit fourth in the standings with six points from six matches, scoring 11 goals while conceding eight.

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Gambia trail closely behind in fifth with four points, though their record shows a stronger offensive output with 12 goals, offset by a leaky defense that has allowed 13.

The two-point gap between these sides makes the fixture a pivotal clash. Victory for Kenya would build a five-point cushion over their rivals, while defeat could see them leapfrogged in the group table.

Momentum is firmly with the Harambee Stars. Unbeaten in their last five matches across competitions, they have recorded three wins and two draws.

Recent victories over Morocco, DR Congo, and Zambia have underscored their tactical evolution and fighting spirit.

Meanwhile, Gambia’s form has been patchy, combining a strong away win over Equatorial Guinea with damaging defeats to Algeria and Ivory Coast.

One challenge for head coach Benni McCarthy is the absence of dependable left-back Eric “Marcelo” Ouma, who remains sidelined with a leg injury.

Ouma’s overlapping runs and defensive cover have long been integral to the squad, and his absence forces tactical adjustments.

In his place, Abud Omar is expected to step into the role, offering stability and experience.

Another notable change lies in goal, where the youthful Bryne Omondi is likely to start ahead of veteran Faruk Shikhalo, signaling a generational shift between the posts.

Richard Odada, ever-present in recent outings, will assume the deep-lying role, orchestrating transitions and shielding the defense.

Alongside him, Timothy Ouma provides flair and energy, while Duke Abuya adds dynamism and a link between the midfield and attack. This trio is expected to control the tempo, breaking Gambian momentum while feeding the forward line.

Wide areas will be crucial. William Lenkupae, who impressed with his pace and direct dribbling, is likely to start on the right wing.

On the opposite flank, Boniface Muchiri’s ability to stretch defenses and deliver crosses gives Olunga the supply line he thrives upon.

Both wingers are tasked not only with attacking responsibility but also with tracking back to support the full-backs, ensuring Kenya does not concede width to Gambia’s fast attackers.

At the spearhead of the attack stands captain Michael Olunga, Kenya’s talisman and most reliable goal-scorer. His leadership, presence, and ability to convert half-chances make him indispensable.

The defensive unit will see Ronney Onyango continue at right-back, with Collins Sichenje and Michael Kibwage forming the central partnership.

Together with Abud Omar on the left, they aim to form a resilient back four capable of neutralizing Gambia’s attacking threats, particularly from Musa Barrow and Yankuba Minteh.

Bryne Omondi, Ronney Onyango, Collins Sichenje, Michael Kibwage, Abud Omar, Richard Odada, Timothy Ouma, Duke Abuya, William Lenkupae, Michael Olunga, Boniface Muchiri.