Harambee Stars Probable XI: Scriven, Oduor, Tyson Otieno present interesting choices for South Sudan clash

Kenya’s Harambee Stars on Tuesday 12 September afternoon entertain South Sudan in their second international friendly fixture this window, and with a chance to extend their dominance on the country ranked 167th in the world - as per the updated FIFA World rankings.

The two nations have clashed four times in all competitions, with Kenya registering all wins - totaling to an aggregate scoreline of 8-1.

The last meeting was on 13 March 2021 when Kenya won 1-0 at the Nyayo National Stadium thanks to an Elvis Rupia goal.

D-day as Harambee Stars welcome South Sudan in first home match after almost two years

With some early team news out - revolving around the absence of defender Johnstone Omurwa and winger Ayub Timbe - who have both returned to their clubs in Portugal and China respectively, we look at what might be the probable lineup for today’s game.

Goalkeeper

Bryne Odhiambo: The KCB man has started in all of Harambee Stars’ last three fixtures and definitely looks to have beaten his compatriots - Ian Otieno and Patrick Matasi - to the starting role.

Bar a Hasssan Al Haydos penalty, which he did try to stick a palm to, he has shown maturity in between the sticks and should get a nod for this one.

Defense.

Daniel Anyembe: Barely put a foot wrong in his first full debut, and was involved in the build-up to Kenya’s opening goal against Qatar last Thursday.

Offering width on the right, plus covering up his position in transition was a thing to behold.

Most importantly, he looked like a good passer. Firat will definitely not pass him up.

PLAYER RATINGS: Entire backline shines as Harambee Stars beats Qatar

Joseph Okumu: Absolutely nothing not to like about the Stade de Reims center back.

Playing on a high line seemed not to faze the man who made a return to the starting line-up having missed the Mauritius and Pakistan games and backed up Omurwa decently.

On top of that, he scored a bullet header to give Kenya the lead against Qatar. Easy choice here.

Brian Mandela: With Omurwa missing, a hint last Thursday was when the Mamelodi Sundowns man stepped off the bench in the 90th minute to replace a knackered Ayub Timbe.

Being one of the most experienced players in that backline, Mandela will likely get a start ahead of youthful Collins Sichenje.

Erick Ouma: Never puts a foot wrong - if you are not lynching him for the tackle on Abdurisag that yielded a penalty on Thursday.

Was one of the most hardworking players against Qatar, no surprise he was involved in the winning goal.

Without a doubt starts at left back.

Midfield

Richard Odada: Impact felt without necessarily jumping in front of the cameras.

Asked for a Victor Wanyama replacement? He answers the question (again) against South Sudan.

Teddy Akumu: Left many asking why he doesn’t get games at his club - Sagan Tosu.

Team heartbeat and a hard grafter. Should start once again.

Tyson Otieno included in Harambee Stars squad ahead of South Sudan tie

Tyson Otieno: One of the new faces at national team camp in the last couple of days and deservedly so.

Has been a joy to watch in the FKF Premier League and Tuesday could provide the Kenya Police man a glorious opportunity to get his debut in national team colors. And in front of the home fans.

Attack

Clarke Oduor: Made his debut in October 2020 and has had a brilliant start to the season at Bradford City.

With Elvis Rupia getting hooked at halftime against Qatar, a spot for Oduor on the left side of attack doesn’t seem far-fetched.

Alfred Scriven: Handed his national team debut against Iran in March and could potentially have something in store that could excite Firat on the right side. Expecting a huge call here.

Michael Olunga: National team captain. Main striker. Involved in the Amos Nondi goal against Qatar. Don’t see a reason why he doesn’t start.