
Harambee Stars Make Final Changes to 25-Man Squad Ahead of CHAN 2024
⚽ Kenya’s CHAN 2024 Journey Begins with Tactical Adjustments
With just days to go before the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 kicks off, Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has made strategic changes to the final 25-man squad, signaling Kenya’s intent to make a strong debut in the continental tournament.
Why the Changes Were Made
The adjustments were prompted by minor injuries, fitness concerns, and tactical reshuffling. McCarthy emphasized the need for a balanced squad that blends experience with emerging talent.
Who’s In and Who’s Out?
Three players have been dropped:
- Mohammed Bajaber
- Swaleh Pamba
- Brian Musa
They’ve been replaced by:
- Brian Michira (Shabana FC)
- Chrispin Erambo (Tusker FC)
- Edward Omondi (Sofapaka FC)
Goalkeeper Line-Up
- Faruk Shikhalo (Muhoroni Youth FC) – Expected starter
- Byrne Omondi (KCB FC)
- Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks)
Shikhalo’s experience and reflexes make him the likely first-choice keeper.
️ Defensive Backbone
Led by captain Abud Omar, the defense includes:
- Siraj Mohammed (Bandari FC)
- Alphonce Omija (Club Dhofa)
- Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia)
- Mike Kibwage (Tusker FC)
- Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, and Kevin Okumu – Providing depth and competition
Midfield Engine
The midfield is stacked with creativity and grit:
- Brian Michira and Chrispin Erambo – New additions
- Alpha Onyango
- Austin Odhiambo
- Ben Stanley
- Marvin Nabwire
Expect dynamic transitions and ball control from this group.
Attacking Arsenal
Leading the line is veteran Masoud Juma, supported by:
- Edward Omondi
- Felix Oluoch
- Boniface Muchiri
- David Sakwa
- Ryan Ogam
- Austin Odongo – Making his much-anticipated debut
Opening March
Kenya will face DR Congo on August 3 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The match is expected to draw tens of thousands of fans.
Group A Overview
Kenya is in a challenging group with:
- Angola
- Morocco
- Zambia
- DR Congo
However, playing all group matches at home gives Harambee Stars a crucial advantage.
Coach McCarthy’s Strategy
Benni McCarthy is known for his tactical acumen. His focus is on:
- High pressing
- Quick transitions
- Set-piece efficiency
The squad changes reflect his commitment to adaptability and performance.
Federation’s Support
- FKF President Hussein Mohammed announced that Harambee Stars replica jerseys will be available for a limited time at a subsidized price of Ksh 1,500, down from Ksh 2,500.
- This offer is in response to requests from fans, particularly ahead of the African Nations Championships (CHAN).
- The jerseys can be purchased through the manufacturer’s website and Sonalux House.
- FKF is also working on releasing new kits for the national team following a competitive design process.
- Odibets has partnered with FKF to become the official betting and motivational partner for Harambee Stars.
- This partnership includes the distribution of 50,000 Harambee Stars jerseys to fans who place bets on the Aviator game on the Odibets platform.
- FKF President Nick Mwendwa highlighted that this partnership strengthens the bond between the team and fans.
- FKF officials, including NEC members, branch chairpersons, and club CEOs, traveled to Abidjan to support Harambee Stars.
- Members of Parliament, including Wanami Wamboka and Eddie Okech, visited the Harambee Stars camp to offer encouragement.
- FKF CEO Harold Ndege expressed gratitude for the MPs’ visit and assured them of the team’s readiness.
- FKF also organized an integrity session for the players and officials.
- The team has also received support from Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.
- FKF is actively promoting the CHAN 2024 tournament, which Kenya is co-hosting.
- The federation is encouraging fans to fill the stadiums and support the team, especially during their home matches at Kasarani Stadium.
- FKF is also working to ensure the team is well-prepared, including through integrity sessions.
Squad Depth and Versatility
The final squad offers:
- Positional flexibility
- Youthful energy
- Veteran leadership
This balance is key to surviving the “Group of Death.”
Fitness and Recovery
Players like Mohammed Bajaber are still recovering from injuries. McCarthy has prioritized match-readiness over reputation.
Goalkeeping Rotation Strategy
While Shikhalo is the favorite, McCarthy may rotate based on opposition tactics and match intensity.
Midfield Dynamics
Michira and Erambo bring fresh energy. Their inclusion could be pivotal in breaking down compact defenses.
Forward Line Chemistry
Juma’s experience combined with Omondi’s pace and Oluoch’s finishing creates a potent attacking trio.
Defensive Cohesion
The backline is expected to operate in a 4-3-3 formation, with Omar marshalling the troops and Kibwage providing aerial strength.
Tactical Flexibility
McCarthy may switch to a 3-5-2 or 4-2-3-1 depending on the opponent. The squad is built to adapt.
Youth Integration
Players like Kevin Okumu and Austin Odongo represent Kenya’s future. Their inclusion is a nod to long-term development.
Fan Expectations
Kenyan fans are optimistic. Social media is buzzing with support and predictions for a deep tournament run.
Government Backing
The Ministry of Sports has pledged full support, including security, transport, and stadium readiness.
CHAN 2024 Format
The tournament features home-based players only, making it a showcase of domestic talent.
Kenya’s CHAN Debut
This is Kenya’s first appearance at CHAN, and expectations are high. A strong showing could redefine the nation’s football trajectory.
Key Match to Watch
The clash against Morocco is expected to be the toughest. It could determine Kenya’s fate in the group.
Support the Stars in Style
Celebrate Kenya’s CHAN journey with official Harambee Stars merchandise! Show your pride, support the team, and own a piece of history. Every purchase helps fund grassroots football in Kenya.
Final Thoughts
The Harambee Stars’ final squad for CHAN 2024 reflects ambition, strategy, and national pride. With McCarthy at the helm and a passionate fanbase behind them, Kenya is ready to make its mark on the continental stage.
Let me know if you’d like this broken into CMS-ready sections, or if you want help crafting product descriptions, meta tags, or internal links to boost your site’s SEO even further.