- The Kenya vs Senegal international friendly match will be played on Tuesday, November 18.
- The game will be staged at Turkey’s Mardan Stadium.
- Kickoff is set for 6:00 PM EAT with the match being broadcast live on KBC.
The men’s national football team, Harambee Stars, will be back in action on Tuesday evening when they take on African giants Senegal in a friendly match at the Mardan Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkey.
The match kicks off at 6 PM (EAT) and offers both sides a chance to steady the ship after disappointing outings in their most recent international fixtures.
Senegal head into the clash licking their wounds after a 2-0 defeat to Brazil, while Kenya are also seeking redemption following a narrow 1-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea.
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For Stars head coach Benni McCarthy, tonight’s fixture carries added weight as he continues his search for a first win in the November FIFA international window.
With that in mind, we take a closer look at the probable line-up McCarthy is likely to field against the Teranga Lions.
Kenya vs Senegal probable lineup
Goalkeeper
There is little question about who starts between the posts. Byrne Omondi has firmly established himself as McCarthy’s trusted number one since the South African tactician took over.
The Gor Mahia shot-stopper has been in excellent form this season, conceding just once and keeping a league-high five clean sheets in the SportPesa League. His confidence and command make him the natural starter.
Defense
At right-back, Zamalek defender Baron Ochieng’ looks set for his Harambee Stars debut. Despite limited minutes at club level, his pace and ability to handle quick, tricky wingers make him a strong candidate against a Senegal side known for speed on the flanks.
His versatility, with the ability to play on either side, is an added bonus.
On the opposite side, Gor Mahia’s Bryton Onyona could get the nod. The JKUAT student has made the left-back position his own at K’Ogalo this season, starting every league match and showing maturity beyond his years.
The central defensive pairing is likely to feature the CHAN-tested duo of Alphonse Omija and Sylvester Owino. Omija has settled well at Etoile Sportive du Sahel, while Owino remains a pillar in a Gor Mahia backline that boasts the best defensive record in the league so far.
Midfield
Experience will be vital in the middle of the park and Nejmeh SC midfielder Teddy Akumu looks set to anchor the midfield. His composure, tactical discipline, and match intelligence will be crucial against a strong Senegalese midfield.
He will likely be flanked by Gor Mahia duo Alpha Onyango and Austin Odhiambo. Alpha brings energy, work rate, and ball-winning ability, while Odhiambo adds that much-needed spark of creativity going forward.
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Attack
McCarthy is expected to line up with a three-man attack. On the left, Ulinzi Stars assistant captain Boniface Muchiri offers pace, trickery and reliable delivery qualities that have made him one of Ulinzi’s standout performers this season.
Through the middle, Ryan Ogam is tipped to start in place of captain Michael Olunga. The Wolfsberger forward has grown in confidence under McCarthy’s watch, especially after a fine CHAN campaign where he finished as Kenya’s top scorer.
On the right flank, VPS forward William Lenkupae provides power and athleticism. His ability to track back and assist defensively makes him a valuable asset against a physically imposing Senegal side.
As both teams search for momentum, tonight’s contest promises to be an exciting test for Harambee Stars and a crucial opportunity for McCarthy to stamp his identity on the team.
