Football

Harambee Stars squad for Malawi tournament revealed

The Kenya men’s national football team, Harambee Stars in a previous trainig session. (Photo: Harambee Stars/Twitter)

By Rama Mohammed | Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Notable additions include Murang’a Seal’s Bonphas Munyasa, Alphonse Omija from Oman, and Scotland-based Jonah Ayunga. Additionally, Firat has recalled familiar faces like Egypt-based striker John Avire and Bandari FC goalkeeper Bryne Omondi, who have both made a comeback after periods of absence.

Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has officially revealed the squad that will represent Kenya in the upcoming four-nation tournament set to take place in Lilongwe, Malawi.

This provisional squad showcases a blend of fresh talent and seasoned veterans. Firat has granted opportunities to several newcomerse such as Murang’a Seal’s rising star Bonphas Munyasa, Alphonse Omija who plays professional football in Oman, and the fast-rising midfielder from Tusker FC Chris Erambo.

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The squad sees the return of some familiar faces to the national setup. Notably, Egypt-based striker John Avire makes a long-awaited comeback after a spell away from international duty. Additionally, Bandari FC's goalkeeper Bryne Omondi rejoins the squad following his recovery from injury, alongside the comeback of Daniel Anyembe, adding depth to the defensive lineup.

Despite facing injury concerns, Joseph Okumu's inclusion in the squad highlights his significance to Firat's plans. The tournament in Lilongwe presents a crucial opportunity for Kenya to fine-tune its squad ahead of the looming World Cup qualifiers in June.

With formidable opponents such as Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe in the mix, the competition promises to be intense.

Full squad

Goalkeepers

Ian Otieno (Zesco-Zambia), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police), Byrne Odhiambo (Bandari), Bonphas Munyasa (Muranga Seal)

Defenders

Collins Sichenje (AIK-Sweden), Joseph Okumu (Reims-France), Johnstone Omurwa (Estrela-Portugal), Dennis Ng’ang’a (Zanaco Zambia), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg-Denmark), Amos Nondi (Ararat), Abud Omar (Kenya Police), Eric Ouma (Rakow-Poland), Alphonce Omija (Dhofar-Oman), Rooney Onyango (Gor Mahia)

Midfielders

Kaycie Odhiambo (AFC Leopards), Chris Erambo (Tusker), Richard Odada (Aalborg-Denmark), Anthony Akumu (Unattached), Kenneth Muguna (Kenya Police), Eric Johanna (UTA-Romania)

Forwards

John Avire (Sekka), Michael Olunga (Duhail-Oman), Jonah Ayunga (ST. Mirren-Scotland), Benson Omalla (Gor Mahia), Shariff Musa (Gor Mahia), Ayub Timbe (Sebail-Azeberijan), David Sakwa (Bandari)