Michael Olunga and Joseph Okumu feature in Kenya’s provisional selection for the South Africa fixtures.
Benni McCarthy names 36 players for November’s AFCON qualifiers as Kenya seek their first campaign win against Bafana Bafana.
Michael Olunga and Joseph Okumu headline the Harambee Stars squad for two 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against South Africa. Head coach Benni McCarthy has selected 36 players in his provisional group, combining experienced internationals with emerging talent.
Kenya will visit South Africa on November 13 before hosting Bafana Bafana at Nyayo National Stadium on November 17. The home fixture will kick off at 7 pm.
Although Kenya qualify automatically as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania, McCarthy continues to build towards the tournament. His side also seek their first qualifying win after drawing with Eritrea and losing to Guinea.
Injury returns strengthen Harambee Stars squad
Okumu returns after a lengthy injury absence, giving McCarthy another experienced option at the back. The Stade de Reims centre-back brings European experience as Kenya prepare to face their coach’s native country.
Meanwhile, captain Olunga rejoins the provisional group after missing the previous international window while recovering from injury. The Al-Arabi striker remains a key attacking option, with Kenya’s all-time scoring record also in his sights.
Goalkeeper Ian Otieno, who plays for South African club Richards Bay, has earned a recall. Danish Superliga defender Daniel Anyembe also returns to contention after missing several matches in recent months.
In midfield, Gor Mahia’s Alpha Onyango earns a place following a promising start to the domestic season.
Young prospects join experienced internationals
McCarthy has also included Spanish-based prospects Aldrine Kibet and Job Ochieng as he continues to consider younger players. Kibet plays for Celta Vigo, while Ochieng has been developing his career at Real Sociedad.
Alongside Olunga, the attacking options include RFC Liège’s Ryan Ogam, Bandari’s Lawrence Okoth and Carlisle United forward Micah Obiero. The selection draws on players from both Kenyan clubs and overseas teams.
In defence, Exeter City’s Vincent Harper joins AIK’s Stanley Wilson and Valencia youngster Amos Wanjala. McCarthy has also included Abud Omar, Frank Odhiambo and Rooney Onyango among his defensive options.
Otieno joins four other goalkeepers: Gor Mahia’s Byrne Omondi, Tusker’s Brian Bwire, Nairobi United’s Faruk Shikhalo and ADO Den Haag’s Caleb Kramer.
The midfield selection also features Stade de Reims’ Manzur Okwaro, Power Dynamos’ Marvin Nabwire and Ararat-Armenia’s Alwyn Tera. Slough Town’s Henry Ochieng and Wrexham’s Zak Vyner complete the midfield names included in the provisional selection.
