Nairobi, Kenya
The Kenya National team Harambee Stars is set for the upcoming international friendly match against Russia which will be played in Turkey on Monday, October 16, 2023.
The match will serve as the last litmus test for the Kenyan team before they embark on their journey towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, set to commence this November.
In the previous international break, Harambee Stars secured a triumphant 2-1 victory against Qatar but faced a shocking 1-0 loss at the hands of South Sudan on home turf. The team will therefore be more determined than ever to hone their skills and strategy in preparation for the forthcoming challenges.
Head coach Engin Firat named his provisional 23-man squad for their upcoming friendly against Russia. Among the notable inclusions are Vincent Harper and Rooney Onyango, who have earned their maiden call-up to the national team.
Players who will be making a cameo in the national team include Brian Bwire from Tusker FC, Ovella Ochieng based in South Africa, and Cliffton Miheso from AFC Leopards.
As the countdown begins for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, Kenya finds itself placed in a fiercely competitive group alongside formidable opponents: Burundi, Seychelles, Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Gambia.
The upcoming encounters will be against Gabon on November 13th and Seychelles on November 20th, 2023.
Kazi imeanza 💪 pic.twitter.com/vZ61DS209c
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) October 9, 2023
The 48-team World Cup format expansion presents Africa with an unprecedented opportunity to secure more slots on the global stage. These qualifiers are therefore of paramount importance for Harambee Stars, who have their sights set on making a significant impact in the world of football.
In this highly-anticipated competition, the group winners will earn a direct ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the top four runners-up from the groups will advance to the CAF Play-Off tournament.
Harambee Stars Squad to Face Russia
Goalkeepers
Patrick Matasi, Brian Bwire, Bryne Odhiambo
Defenders
Joseph Stanley Okumu, Brian Mandela, Johnstone Omurwa, Collins Sichenje, Erick Ouma, Rooney Onyango, Daniel Sakari, Vincent Harper, Amos Nondi
Midfielders
Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Kenneth Muguna, Alpha Onyango, Ayub Timbe, Ovella Ochieng
Forwards
Masoud Juma, Alfred Scriven, Cliffton Miheso, Moses Shummah, Michael Olunga
