Kenya will face South Africa in two November AFCON qualifiers.
Benni McCarthy names 36 players for November’s AFCON qualifiers against South Africa, with returning internationals joining emerging talent.
Benni McCarthy has named a 36-man provisional Harambee Stars squad for two AFCON qualifiers against South Africa. Captain Michael Olunga and defender Joseph Okumu headline the selection, which also includes young midfielder Aldrine Kibet.
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 2027 AFCON co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania, McCarthy continues to build his team. The November fixtures will also pit the coach against his native country.
Meanwhile, Kenya seek their first victory in the qualifying campaign after drawing with Eritrea and losing to Guinea.
Injury returnees strengthen Harambee Stars squad
Okumu returns after a lengthy injury lay-off, bringing his European experience back into Kenya’s defensive options. The Stade de Reims centre-back joins a selection that combines established internationals with younger players.
Olunga also returns 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 in his sights.
Goalkeeper Ian Otieno, who plays for South African club Richards Bay, has earned a recall. Meanwhile, Danish Superliga defender Daniel Anyembe returns to contention after missing several matches in recent months.
Gor Mahia midfielder Alpha Onyango also features following a promising start to the domestic season. Alongside the returning players, McCarthy has retained several emerging talents in his provisional plans.
Kibet and Ochieng among emerging options
Spanish-based prospects Kibet and Job Ochieng feature as McCarthy continues to consider younger players. Kibet plays for Celta Vigo, while Ochieng has been developing his career at Real Sociedad.
In attack, Ryan Ogam of Belgian club RFC Liège joins Olunga, Bandari’s Lawrence Okoth and Carlisle United’s Micah Obiero. Defensive options also include Exeter City’s Vincent Harper, AIK’s Stanley Wilson and Valencia youngster Amos Wanjala.
Abud Omar, Frank Odhiambo and Rooney Onyango feature among the other defenders. Meanwhile, Byrne Omondi, Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikhalo and Caleb Kramer join Otieno in the goalkeeping department.
The midfield selection also includes Manzur Okwaro of Stade de Reims and Marvin Nabwire of Power Dynamos. Alwyn Tera of Ararat-Armenia, Henry Ochieng of Slough Town and Zak Vyner of Wrexham complete the named midfield options.
