Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy faces several tactical decisions as Kenya prepare to host Eritrea at the Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday afternoon for their opening match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
With captain Michael Olunga ruled out through injury and long-serving left-back Eric Ouma still recovering from an injury sustained at his Polish club Raków Częstochowa, McCarthy is set to field a reshuffled squad that blends European-based talent with domestic star performers.
Collins Sichenje and Joseph Okumu also remain among the long-term absentees in the defensive department.
Between the posts, Nairobi United custodian Faruk Shikhalo is expected to get the nod in goal ahead of Byrne Omondi.
ALSO READ Underprepared Harambee Stars eye first win over Eritrea in 20 years in AFCON 2027 qualifier
Ouma’s injury absence leaves space on the flank for Abud Omar, while in central defense, Haniff Wesonga makes a return to the national team setup following a standout season with Jamus in the South Sudan League.
Wesonga is tipped to partner Frank Odhiambo at the heart of the backline, flanked by full-backs Rooney Onyango and Abud Omar.
In midfield, CHAN sensation Manzur Okwaro is likely to get the nod in the center, with Richard Odada not part of the current setup. Okwaro will be joined by Yanga SC fan favorite Duke Abuya and Charlton Athletic’s Timothy Ouma to control the engine room.
ALSO READ Kenya vs Eritrea prediction: AFCON 2027 Qualifiers preview, team news, h2h, tickets & where to watch
Upfront, LaLiga breakout star Job Ochieng’ will most likely start on the left wing, while Gor Mahia’s speedy winger Shariff Musa occupies the right flank. Operating as the central striker, Ryan Ogam will lead the attack as he chases his 10th senior national team career goal.
The AFCON 2027 Group D qualifier between Kenya and Eritrea kicks off at 16:00 EAT at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
ALSO READ: Olunga ruled out of Harambee Stars camp as McCarthy prioritises striker’s recovery
Harambee Stars Probable Starting XI
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: Faruk Shikhalo
- Defenders: Rooney Onyango, Frank Odhiambo, Haniff Wesonga, Abud Omar
- Midfielders: Manzur Okwaro, Duke Abuya, Timothy Ouma
- Forwards: Shariff Musa, Ryan Ogam, Job Ochieng’