All you need to know about the final 25 players to represent Kenya at CHAN 2024
Benni McCarthy has named his final 25-man Harambee Stars squad for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), as Kenya gears up to host DR Congo in their opening match on 3 August at Kasarani.
South African tactician Benni McCarthy, head coach of Kenya’s national team Harambee Stars, has named his final 25-man squad that will represent the country at the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The tournament, which exclusively features players active in their national domestic leagues, kicks off early next month, with Kenya set to face DR Congo on 3 August 2025, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM, and all of Kenya’s group-stage matches will be hosted at the same venue.
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McCarthy’s final list reflects a balance of promising youth and valuable experience, with players drawn from top-flight Kenyan Premier League clubs.
Notably, three players, Faruk Shikalo, Abud Omar, and Masoud Juma bring international tournament exposure, having featured in Kenya’s squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Their experience is expected to be a guiding force for the relatively young squad throughout the tournament.
The team will be captained by seasoned left-back Abud Omar, 32 of Kenya Police FC.
He is joined by forward Masoud Juma, now turning out for Migori Youth, who adds attacking flair and proven goal-scoring ability at 29.
Faruk Shikalo of Bandari FC, one of the three goalkeepers in the squad, offers a commanding presence between the posts.
Also making the headlines is Tusker FC striker Ryan Wesley Ogam. At just 20 years old, Ogam enters the tournament as one of Kenya’s brightest prospects, having scored an impressive 15 goals in 17 matches last season.
He will spearhead the attack alongside Felix Oluoch of Posta Rangers and David Sakwa of Bandari FC, both of whom add strength and finishing prowess in the final third.
The midfield features a mix of youth and consistency, anchored by Gor Mahia's Austine Odhiambo, 23, and Kenya Police FC’s Marvin Nabwire, 24 both of whom have enjoyed stellar domestic seasons.
They will be joined by Stanley Ben, a 21-year-old midfielder also from Gor Mahia, and Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri, 28, whose attacking midfield play will be key in transitioning from defence to attack.
Brian Musa of Kenya Police FC brings defensive midfield stability, while Mohammed Bajaber, 22, adds speed and width from the flanks.
Adding further depth to midfield is Alpha Onyango of Gor Mahia. At 24, Alpha is known for his intelligent distribution and work rate.
At the back, the defensive core is dominated by Gor Mahia’s trio of Silvester Owino (24), Omija Alphonce (22), and Siraj Mohammed (26).
They are joined by Tusker FC’s Mike Kibwage (27), AFC Leopards’ Lewis Bandi (22), KCB FC’s Kevin Okumu (27) and 19-year-old Manzur Okwaro, who represents one of the youngest members of the team.
Daniel Sakari of Kenya Police FC, 26, offers strength at right back, while Swaleh Pamba of Bandari FC adds a defensive edge.
The goalkeeping department boasts depth and variety, with Byrne Omondi of Gor Mahia (28), Faruk Shikalo of Bandari (29), and Kariobangi Sharks’ Sebastian Wekesa (25) all included in the squad.
Tickets will retail at Sh 200, Sh 500, and Sh 1,000 and can be purchased via the ticketing platform Mookh.
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