Amos Wanjala steps up to Harambee Stars as Firat unveils squad for final AFCON push
By Rama Mohammed |
Rising Stars captain Amos Wanjala has officially joined the senior Harambee Stars squad for Kenya's final AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia. The young defender, who progressed rapidly from U18 to U23 levels within a year, now steps up to the senior team after a series of standout performances.
Rising Stars captain Amos Wanjala has been promoted to the senior Harambee Stars squad by coach Engin Firat for Kenya's final two 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia. Wanjala's journey has been rapid, moving from the U18s to the U20s and U23s, and now securing a senior team position.
His rise began after leading the U18 team at the CECAFA tournament in Kisumu last December. This performance paved the way for his participation in the U23 squad, where he played all three COSAFA Cup matches in South Africa in July. Last month, Wanjala captained the U20 team to qualify for the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations after finishing second in the qualifiers held in Tanzania. His leadership and skill inspired fans to call for his inclusion in the senior team.
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Also joining the squad for the first time is Ulinzi Stars midfielder Leshan Mootian. Coach Firat’s 23-man squad features notable selections like Kenya Police midfielder Marvin Nabwire, recognized for his standout performances in the CHAN qualifiers, and Tusker defender Charles Momanyi, who played a key role in Kenya’s CHAN qualifier against South Sudan.
However, veteran goalkeeper Patrick Matasi misses out as Firat opted for Ian Otieno, Bryne Omondi, and Faruk Shikalo.
Both AFCON qualifying matches will be held at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. Harambee Stars will leave Nairobi on November 11, preparing to face Zimbabwe on November 15 and Namibia on November 19.
Kenya currently ranks third in Group J with four points, trailing Cameroon (10 points) and Zimbabwe (8 points).
Full Harambee Stars Squad
Goalkeepers
Byrne Odhiambo, Faruk Shikalo, Ian Otieno
Defenders
Daniel Anyembe, Amos Wanjala, Amos Nondi, Joseph Okumu, Johnstone Omurwa, Charles Momanyi, Eric Ouma, Abud Omar
Midfielders
Anthony Akumu, Marvin Nabwire, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma, Richard Odada, Austine Odhiambo, Ronney Onyango, Alfred Scriven, Leshan Mootian, Adam Wilson
Forwards
Michael Olunga, Jonah Ayunga, John Avire
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