Benni McCarthy Names Kenya Squad for Upcoming Matches Against Bafana Bafana

Kenya national team coach Benni McCarthy has announced his final squad for the upcoming two matches against South Africa as both countries prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Harambee Stars will face Bafana Bafana in a two-legged international contest scheduled for November 13 and November 17, 2026.

One of the biggest names in the squad is captain Michael Olunga, who returns to lead Kenya’s attack. Experienced defender Eric Marcelo Ouma has also been included after missing the country’s recent matches. Their return is expected to provide McCarthy with additional experience as he prepares his team for the South African challenge.

Another notable inclusion is midfielder Alwyn Tera, who has earned a national team recall after being away from the squad for several years. Young forward Job Ochieng has also been selected following his performances for Spanish club Real Sociedad. McCarthy has included a mixture of experienced players, emerging talents and footballers based outside Kenya.

Other players named include goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, defenders Abud Omar and Sylvester Owino, midfielder Zak Vyner, and forwards Mohammed Bajaber, Ryan Ogam and Micah Obiero. The selection gives Kenya options in different areas of the pitch as the coach prepares for the two important encounters.

The first meeting will take place at Orlando Stadium in South Africa on November 13, before Kenya hosts the return fixture at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on November 17. Although Kenya has already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON as one of the co-hosting countries, the matches will provide an important opportunity for McCarthy to assess his players against South Africa.

https://x.com/soccerbeatza/status/2118691715250786308?s=46

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