Michael Olunga and Eric Ouma return to Kenya’s squad for the South Africa qualifiers.
Benni McCarthy names 24 players for November’s two qualifiers as Kenya seek their first Group D victory.
Michael Olunga and Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma return to the Harambee Stars squad for November’s double-header against South Africa. Head coach Benni McCarthy unveiled his 24-man selection on Friday for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Kenya will visit Orlando Stadium on November 13 before hosting Bafana Bafana at Nyayo National Stadium four days later. McCarthy has selected three goalkeepers, nine defenders, four midfielders and eight forwards for the two matches.
The captain and left-back return after lengthy injury absences, giving Kenya experienced options in attack and defence. Meanwhile, the selection includes players from overseas leagues alongside representatives from the Kenyan Premier League.
Harambee Stars squad welcomes returning experience
Olunga missed recent national team assignments after undergoing surgery in Paris for a pelvic injury. The injury sidelined the Al-Arabi striker for several months, and his return restores an established attacking option.
Ouma, meanwhile, returns following his recovery from a serious injury sustained during training with Polish club Raków Częstochowa. He suffered the injury in August 2025 and now offers McCarthy another experienced choice on the left flank.
Zak Vyner also rejoins the national team setup after his first call-up in May 2024 under former coach Engin Firat. The Wrexham player joined Kenya’s camp in Malawi ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. However, unfinished Kenyan nationality and passport documentation prevented him from playing.
Midfielder Alwyn Tera of Ararat-Armenia also returns after an extended absence. Other additions include Slough Town’s Henry Ochieng, The New Saints forward Adam Wilson, Tulsa’s William Lenkupae and Gor Mahia defender Sylvester Owino.
Kenya chase first Group D victory
However, Gor Mahia midfielder Alpha Onyango misses out despite appearing in the provisional squad. McCarthy’s final selection combines returning players with options across several domestic and overseas clubs.
Kenya enter the double-header seeking their first Group D win after drawing 1-1 with Eritrea in their opener. They then lost 1-0 to Guinea, leaving McCarthy’s side looking for an improved return against South Africa.
South Africa, meanwhile, won their opening two matches to take an early lead in the group. The two November fixtures therefore pit Kenya against opponents who have started the qualifying campaign strongly.
Although Kenya already have an automatic place at the 2027 finals, the qualifiers offer competitive preparation. The country will co-host the tournament with Uganda and Tanzania as McCarthy continues building his team.
