In a major announcement on July 3, 2025, Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy revealed a 30‑man provisional squad drawn entirely from the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) in preparation for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN). The tournament, reserved exclusively for players from domestic leagues, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from August 2 to August 30, 2025
Domestic Top Scorers Leading the Attack
Kenya’s most prolific scorers were rewarded with call‑ups:
- Moses Shumah (Kakamega Homeboyz) – 17 goals
- Emmanuel Osoro (FC Talanta) – 16 goals
- Ryan Ogam (Tusker) – 15 goals
Sofapaka forward Edward Omondi also earned a selection following his impressive league form .
Read Also: Chelsea to Sign Brighton Forward João Pedro
Midfield Spark and Newcomers
Kenya Police FC’s Mohammed Bajaber adds creativity in midfield, while new call‑ups include Keith Imbali (Shabana) and Ulinzi Stars duo Yakeen Muteheli and Staphod Odhiambo, reflecting McCarthy’s intent to build depth
Complete Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo (Bandari), Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks), Brian Opondo (Tusker)
Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Pamba Swaleh, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Michael Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders: Brian Musa, Kelly Madada, Keith Imbali, Alpha Onyango, Mathias Isogoli, Staphod Odhiambo, Austine Odhiambo, Ben Stanley
Forwards: Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Emmanuel Osoro, Yakeen Muteheli, Edward Omondi, Ryan Ogam, Moses Shumah, Beja Nyamawi .
Training Camp & CHAN Fixtures
The squad is scheduled to convene on July 10, when training camp officially begins
Kenya’s CHAN campaign opens with a match against DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium on August 3, followed by games against Angola, Morocco, and Zambia in a challenging Group A lineup
Significance of the Squad Selection
- Domestic Focus: As a tournament for home‑based players, CHAN showcases the local talent pool only. Big names like Michael Olunga and Victor Wanyama are ineligible as they play abroad
- Home Pressure: Co‑hosting brings heightened expectations, particularly at Kasarani Stadium, where the opening game and potential final will take place.
- New Leadership: This is McCarthy’s first major squad since taking charge. His selections highlight a preference for current form and title-winning credentials from the domestic season
Read Also: Harambee Stars vs DR Congo: Kenya Set to Kick Off CHAN 2024 Campaign at Kasarani
Player Watch & Tactics to Follow
- Shumah, Osoro & Ogam: Kenya’s top league scorers; their on-field chemistry will be vital in a high-stakes tournament.
- Bajaber’s Creativity: Might pivotally link midfield to attack.
- Defensive Backbone: A blend of KPL veterans and youth to be tested under international pressure.
Looking Ahead
- July 10 – Training camp starts
- August 2 – CHAN kickoff
- August 3 – Kenya vs DR Congo (Kasarani)
- Group Matches – Subsequent games against Angola, Morocco, and Zambia
Kenya’s provisional squad reflects a blend of domestic excellence, youthful promise, and strategic balance. With McCarthy’s tactical nous and a loyal home fanbase, Harambee Stars are poised to make a serious run in CHAN 2024.
Would you like player profiles, tactical formations, or predictions for Kenya’s group stage prospects?
Never Miss a Story: Join Our Newsletter
