McCarthy names Harambee Stars squad for final 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Nairobi, Kenya — September 26, 2025 (EAT).

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has announced a 24-man squad for Kenya’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, which will see the team face Burundi on October 9 and Ivory Coast on October 14. 

The Latest

• The squad was confirmed in a post on the Harambee Stars’ official X account:

  “Coach Benni McCarthy has named the squad for our final 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Burundi October 9 – Burundi and October 14 – Ivory Coast.” 

• Among the fresh faces is Lawrence Okoth, who earns his first senior call-up, joining a roster that mixes experienced CHAN 2024 performers, foreign-based talent, and local standouts. 

• The squad also marks the return of Vincent Harper, who had been absent in recent lineups. 

• Meanwhile, some notable names have been left out, such as Ayunga, who had featured in earlier selections but misses out this time. 

Context & Stakes

• Kenya is in Group F, currently placed 4th, with nine points from eight matches. Despite mathematical chances being slim, the team aims to end the campaign on a strong note. 

• These final matches are both away fixtures, posing additional challenges for the squad in terms of travel, adaptation, and home advantage. 

• The inclusion of new talent suggests McCarthy is balancing between rewarding performance and building depthahead of future tournaments.

Risks, Implications & What to Watch

Implications & Opportunities

• A solid performance in these matches, especially from newcomers like Okoth, could strengthen squad depth and morale for upcoming cycles.

• Veteran players will be under pressure to lead and deliver, especially in challenging away settings.

• The team’s showing may affect FIFA rankings and public perception of McCarthy’s direction.

Risks

• Away fixtures are notoriously difficult; travel fatigue and unfamiliar environments could hurt performance.

• If key players struggle or injuries occur, depth will be tested.

• Failing to perform may intensify criticism from fans and media, especially given high expectations for national teams.

What to Watch

• Starting XI and formation McCarthy opts for—whether he leans toward experienced or youthful balance.

• Debut performances of players like Lawrence Okoth—how quickly they adjust to senior international level.

• Midfield and defensive cohesion, particularly with returning players and new integrations.

• Match outcomes vs Burundi and Ivory Coast—while qualification may be unlikely, results will influence momentum moving forward.