- The Harambee Stars probable lineup against Burundi features seven local players and four foreign-based.
- Kenya face Burundi at 4 PM at the Intwari Stadium in Bujumbura.
- Only one point separate the two sides.
The men’s national football team, Harambee Stars, will face Burundi on Thursday evening at the Intwari Stadium, Bujumbura from 4 PM (EAT) in their penultimate FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier.
Although both Kenya and Burundi, are already out of contention for a 2026 World Cup slot, pride, ranking points and finishing the campaign on a high note are still on the line.
Head coach Benni McCarthy is expected to name a strong side, with SportPesa Blog outlining a probable line-up he could call upon for the encounter.
ALSO READ: Burundi vs Kenya Prediction: WCQ Preview, Team News, Key Stats & H2H
Harambee Stars probable lineup against Burundi
In goal, Byrne Omondi remains the favourite to start having impressed in recent outings for both club and country. The Gor Mahia goalkeeper, who was outstanding during the 2024 CHAN tournament where he even earned a Man of the Match award, has kept two clean sheets in his last two league matches, cementing his place as McCarthy’s preferred choice.
At right-back, Daniel Sakari is tipped to start ahead of Norway-based Rooney Onyango, who is still nursing an injury and awaiting a late fitness test. Sakari’s energy, consistency, and defensive awareness make him a reliable option.
On the left flank, Abud Omar is expected to slot in, bringing leadership and experience. The Kenya Police FC defender had an excellent CHAN campaign and continues to deliver strong performances for the national team.
At the centre of defence, former teammates Alphonce Omija and Sylvester Owino will likely marshal the defensive line. The duo complement each other well, with Owino’s pace and anticipation balancing Omija’s aerial strength and composure.
Before Omija’s move to Tunisia, their chemistry had been key for both club and country, and McCarthy will count on them to keep Burundi’s attack at bay.
In midfield, McCarthy could deploy a four-man setup featuring Duke Abuya, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo and Boniface Muchiri.
Abuya, who registered two assists in the previous outing against Seychelles, adds creativity and drive.
Onyango, who picked up a knock in Gor Mahia’s last league match, trained with the squad and could be available pending a final medical assessment. Should he miss out, Timothy Ouma is a likely replacement after impressing consistently at club level.
Austin Odhiambo will be tasked with orchestrating play from midfield, using his vision to link up with the forwards. Boniface Muchiri, known for his work rate and versatility, offers width and a goal threat from the flanks.
Up front, McCarthy could once again pair Michael Olunga with Ryan Ogam, a combination that proved effective in Kenya’s previous match against Seychelles where both forwards scored.
Olunga, who is chasing Kenya’s all-time scoring record, will lead the line with the ambition of adding to his tally and inspiring the team to victory.
Though qualification hopes are long gone, Harambee Stars will be keen to produce a positive performance as they seek to close their campaign with pride and on s high note.
Kickoff:4 PM (EAT)
Venue:Intwari Stadium, Bujumbura
Match:Burundi vs Kenya – FIFA World Cup Qualifier