- The Harambee Stars probable lineup against Ivory Coast features only four local players in the last FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier set for Tuesday.
- The match will take place at the Stade Alassane Outtara in Abidjan.
- The match kicks off at 10PM.
Harambee Stars will face reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Ivory Coast on Tuesday night at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan in their final group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
For Benni McCarthy’s side, this game is all about pride but for Ivory Coast, a dream World Cup slot is on the line.
The hosts cannot afford to slip up, as a loss or draw could complicate their qualification hopes as Gabon are only one point behind. The first leg between the two sides ended in a goalless draw in Malawi, and Kenya will be hoping to replicate or even better that result in Abidjan.
Here is our probable line up for the match against Ivory Coast in Abidjan.
Goalkeeper
Byrne Omondi is set to start ahead of the injured Brian Bwire, who suffered a collision during Kenya’s 1-0 win against Burundi, and ahead of Faruk Shikalo.
Omondi has been the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper since McCarthy’s appointment and impressed against Burundi, making a crucial last-minute save to preserve Kenya’s clean sheet. The Gor Mahia shotstopper is expected to once again be trusted between the posts.
Defense
Right-back Rooney Onyango will miss this fixture due to suspension after picking up consecutive yellow cards in the qualifiers. With Daniel Sakari an option, McCarthy may instead turn to Alphonce Omija. The Étoile du Sahel defender, who debuted against Ivory Coast a year ago, is defensively solid and could provide the necessary cover against a strong Ivorian attack.
On the left flank, Abud Omar, Kenya’s captain during the 2024 CHAN tournament, is likely to start ahead of Vincent Harper. Omar’s experience and attacking support make him a key figure, especially in the absence of Erick Ouma, who remains sidelined through injury.
At the heart of defense, Collins Sichenje and Sylvester Owino are expected to continue their partnership. The duo has built a solid understanding in recent matches, but Mike Kibwage remains an alternative, particularly for his aerial prowess and physical strength qualities that could come in handy against Sébastien Haller.
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Midfield
Facing the likes of Franck Kessié and Sangaré, McCarthy is expected to opt for a compact four-man midfield. Alpha Onyango could be picked to provide defensive stability, while William Lenkupae brings energy and work rate across the pitch. Timothy Ouma, who impressed off the bench against Burundi, could start for his creativity and strength, while Duke Abuya of Yanga SC is likely to add both defensive balance and attacking support, preferred over Gor Mahia’s Austine Odhiambo.
Attack
In attack, a two-man partnership featuring Michael Olunga and Ryan Ogam is anticipated. The combination proved effective against Burundi, with Olunga assisting Ogam’s decisive goal.
The pairing provides Kenya with both aerial presence and mobility, reducing the captain’s burden while allowing Ogam to exploit spaces behind the Ivorian defense.
A 4-4-2 formation appears to be McCarthy’s most balanced option solid in defense, competitive in midfield, and threatening on the counter.
While Kenya may not be chasing qualification, pride and momentum remain powerful motivators as they aim to end their World Cup qualifying campaign on a high note against one of Africa’s best sides.
Harambee Stars probable lineup against Ivory Coast
Byrne Omondi (GK), Alphonce Omija, Collins Sichenje, Sylvester Owino, Abud Omar; Alpha Onyango, William Lenkupae, Timothy Ouma, Duke Abuya; Michael Olunga, Ryan Ogam.