Mathew Tegisi, Austin Odhiambo headline Harambee Stars squad for 2024 CHAN qualifier against South Sudan

Mark Kinyanjui 14:01 - 24 October 2024

Engin Firat has named final 24-man squad for crucial CHAN 2024 qualifying matches against South Sudan.

Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has unveiled his final squad as Kenya prepares for a pivotal two-legged clash against South Sudan in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) CECAFA qualifiers.

Stars are set to face off against South Sudan on October 27, 2024, in the first leg at Juba International Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 3 PM. The return leg will take place on November 3, 2024, at 4 PM at the Mandela National Stadium in Uganda.

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Firat's 23-man squad features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising talents, with key players from top Kenyan clubs poised to help the team secure a spot in the tournament.

Bandari’s Byrne Omondi, alongside Farouk Shikalo of KCB and Rising Stars goalkeeping hero Ibrahim Wanzala of Kakamega Homeboyz have been called up to the squad as the keepers.

Harambee Stars Squad Announced for 2024 CHAN Qualifiers Against South Sudanhttps://t.co/E2UdUbsq0n pic.twitter.com/bCkYzGvxIb
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) October 24, 2024

Firat has called up a solid defensive line, including seasoned captain Musa Mohammed of Kenya Police, who makes a return for the first time since the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, as well as Gor Mahia’s towering Sylvester Owino. Daniel Sakari has also been drafted for the first time in 11 months.

In midfield, Firat has included a blend of creativity and defensive prowess. The experienced Kenneth Muguna and Marvin Nabwire will anchor the midfield, while Austine Odhiambo has also made a return after injury.

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Upfront, Firat will be looking to AFC Leopards' Victor Omune and Sydney Lokale to spearhead the attack. Both have had standout performances in the FKF Premier League this season. They will be supported by Shabana’s Mathew Tegisi and Patrick Otieno, offering versatility in the forward line.

Harambee Stars CHAN squad

Goalkeepers

Byrne Odhiambo (Bandari), Farouk Shikalo (KCB), Ibrahim Wanzala (Kakamega Homeboyz)

Defenders

Musa Mohammed (Kenya Police FC), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia), Geoffrey Ochieng (Gor Mahia), Bernard Ondiek (Posta Rangers), Brian Eshihanda (Kakamega Homeboyz), Daniel Sakari (Kenya Police FC)

Midfielders

Vincent Owino ( Nairobi City Stars), Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police FC), Kenneth Muguna (Kenya Police FC), Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Issa Lumumba (Ulinzi Stars), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Chrispine Erambo (Tusker FC), Matthias Isogol (Mara Sugar), Andreas Odhiambo (Kariobangi Sharks)

Forwards

Victor Omune (AFC Leopards), Sydney Lokale (AFC Leopards), Mathew Tegisi (Shabana), Patrick Otieno (KCB)