Benni McCarthy Names Seven New Players in Final Harambee Stars Squad for South Africa Double-Header

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has named his final 25-man squad for Kenya’s upcoming back-to-back 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against South Africa, with seven new players receiving call-ups.

The latest selection features several fresh faces who were not part of the squad during Kenya’s previous assignments against Eritrea and Guinea. McCarthy is expected to rely on the new additions to strengthen his team as the country prepares for two challenging encounters against Bafana Bafana.

The seven newcomers are Erick Marcelo Ouma of RKS Rakow, Zak Vyner of Wrexham, Alwyn Tera of Ararat-Armenia, Henry Ochieng of Slough Town, Adam Wilson of New Saints, William Lenkupae of Tulsa and Sylvester Owino of Gor Mahia.

Their inclusion is expected to provide additional options in different departments as McCarthy seeks to assemble a competitive team capable of securing positive results.

Captain Michael Olunga will lead the attacking department following his return to the national team. The Al-Arabi striker will be supported by Job Ochieng of Real Sociedad, Mohammed Bajaber of Nairobi United, Ben Stanley of Gor Mahia, Ryan Ogam of RFC Luttich and Micah Obiero of Carlisle, alongside Wilson and Lenkupae.

In goal, Byrne Omondi of Gor Mahia has been selected alongside Brian Bwire of Tusker and Faruk Shikalo of Nairobi United.

The defensive department features Abud Omar, Frank Odhiambo, Amos Wanjala, Sylvester Owino, Erick Marcelo Ouma, Stanley Wilson, Vincent Harper, Ronney Onyango and Hannif Wesonga.

Meanwhile, Manzur Okwaro of Stade Reims, Tera, Henry Ochieng and Vyner will provide midfield options.

McCarthy will be hoping the blend of experienced internationals and new additions delivers the desired results against South Africa.

https://x.com/eastleighvoice/status/2118706195582374163?s=46

Sherry@2026 feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com