
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy feels the team has enough depth to contend for a major title after adjusting the roster to include new players.
McCarthy spoke after officially naming a 25-man squad set to represent Kenya at the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament, which kicks off this week in Tanzania.
The tournament will act as a critical test for the national team ahead of the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
McCarthy emphasised the importance of the CECAFA tournament in shaping the team’s tactical readiness.
“This tournament comes at the perfect time for us,” McCarthy said. “It is a good platform to gauge our preparedness for CHAN. We’re not going there just to participate—we want to compete and learn.”
He stressed the value of testing the squad against strong regional sides.
“We are going to face formidable opponents and that will clearly show us what is working and what needs to be fixed. These matches will provide us with valuable lessons and help us understand our strengths and weaknesses ahead of CHAN,” the former South African international added.
Kenya will begin their campaign against long-time rivals Uganda Cranes on Monday at 3 pm, followed by a high-stakes clash against hosts Tanzania on Thursday at 4 pm.
The Stars will conclude their group stage matches with a fixture against Senegal on Sunday at 1 pm. All matches will take place at Karatu Stadium in Arusha.
While McCarthy acknowledges the challenges ahead, he remains optimistic about his squad’s potential.
“I believe in this group of players. There’s a strong spirit, hunger, and willingness to fight for the badge. If we stay focused and play as a unit, we can achieve a lot—not just in this tournament but in CHAN and beyond,” he affirmed.
McCarthy, who took the reins of the national side earlier this year, has selected a balanced squad, blending experience and youth across all departments.
Veteran goalkeeper, Farouk Shikalo, is joined by Bryne Omondi and Sepstianos Wekesa.
The defence line features an impressive mix of athleticism and technical prowess with names like Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, and the ever-reliable Abud Omar.
Others include Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino and Michael Kibwage.
In midfield, McCarthy will rely on the creativity and composure of Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, and Marvin Nabwire.
Upfront, the team boasts a promising attacking force led by the experienced Masud Juma, Boniface Muchiri, Felix Oluoch, Mohammed Bajaber, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam and Austin Odongo.