Benni McCarthy makes four changes to the Harambee Stars lineup against Gabon
Notable inclusions in the lineup are Johnstone Omurwa, William Lekumpae, Timothy Ouma, Mohammed Bajaber, and left-back Erick Ouma, who returns to strengthen the defence.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has made key changes ahead of Kenya’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon, set for Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 4 PM at Nyayo National Stadium.
In a bid to inject fresh energy and tactical flexibility, McCarthy has made four alterations to the starting XI from their previous match as the team looks to reignite its qualification hopes.
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Notable inclusions in the lineup are Johnstone Omurwa, William Lenkupae, Timothy Ouma, Mohammed Bajaber, and left-back Erick Ouma, who returns to strengthen the defence.
Brian Mandela, Ismael Gonzalez, John Avire, and Eric Johana have been dropped from the previous starting XI, with McCarthy seemingly opting for a tactical shake-up to find a more cohesive and attacking approach.
Kenya currently sits fourth in Group F with six points from five matches, trailing group leaders Ivory Coast by a daunting 13 points.
With qualification hopes fading, the Harambee Stars will be eager to secure a crucial home victory—both to keep their slim chances alive and to reignite belief among their supporters.
The confirmed starting XI for today’s clash sees Ian Otieno retain his spot in goal, with Ronney Onyango, Johnstone Omurwa, Daniel Anyembe, and Erick Ouma forming the defensive line.
In midfield, Anthony Akumu anchors the play alongside William Lekumpae and Timothy Ouma, while Mohammed Bajaber is expected to provide creativity in support of lead striker Michael Olunga.
This match is a must-win for Kenya, especially after inconsistent results in the earlier qualifying rounds.
Gabon, known for their physicality and technically skilled midfielders, will be a tough opponent. However, McCarthy remains confident that his tactical adjustments will give the Harambee Stars the edge they need.
With Nyayo National Stadium set to be packed with passionate local fans, Harambee Stars will be counting on home support to propel them to victory.
For McCarthy, this marks a crucial moment in his first major qualifying campaign with the national team. He will be eager for a statement performance as he continues to shape the squad in his vision.
Starting XI:
Ian Otieno (GK), Ronney Onyango, Johnstone Omurwa, Daniel Anyembe, Erick Ouma, Anthony Akumu, William Lekumpae, Timothy Ouma, Mohammed Bajaber, Michael Olunga.
Substitutes:
Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikalo, Manzur Okwaro, Brian Mandela, Duke Abuya, Ismael Gonzalez, John Avire, Ben Stanley Omondi, Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia
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