Probable Harambee Stars 4-3-3 setup for CHAN clash with DR Congo
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Reading Time: 3min | Sun. 03.08.25. | 08:15
The South African tactician has admitted facing a selection dilemma ahead of the clash, underscoring the intense competition within the squad
Kenya’s national men’s football team, Harambee Stars, will debut in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) this afternoon when they face DR Congo in a Group A opener at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM.
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This marks the first match in Group A, which also features Zambia, Morocco, and Angola.
Later in the day, Angola will take on Morocco in the second Group A fixture at Nyayo National Stadium, starting from 6:00 PM.
Mozzart Sport examines the possible starting XI that head coach Benni McCarthy could name for Kenya’s historic appearance in the continental tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The South African tactician has admitted facing a selection dilemma ahead of the clash, underscoring the intense competition within the squad.
“Selecting the starting XI has been tough because the boys have shown tremendous hunger,” said McCarthy. “We have had solid backing from the government, and mentally and physically, the players are ready. I believe in whichever group we select, they will give everything for the badge.”
Goalkeeper: Bryne Omondi, a late addition to the squad, is likely to get the nod between the posts.
His inclusion has sparked healthy competition with experienced shot-stopper Faruk Shikalo, who had initially been expected to start.
Defence: Kenya Police duo Daniel Sakari and Abud Omar are the likely starters at right and left fullback, respectively.
At the heart of defence, Gor Mahia’s pairing of Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija is expected to complete the back four.
Midfield: Following the withdrawal of Brian Musa due to a thigh injury, Gor Mahia’s Alpha Onyango is expected to anchor the midfield.
He will likely be flanked by Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police) and Austin Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), who will be tasked with dictating tempo, creating opportunities, and neutralizing DR Congo’s threat through the middle.
Attack: On the wings, Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri is a certainty on the left, with Bandari’s David Sakwa expected to start on the right.
Tusker striker Ryan Ogam is the frontrunner to lead the line, though new Migori Youth signing Masoud Juma offers a strong alternative.
Predicted Harambee Stars starting XI:
Bryne Omondi (GK), Daniel Sakari, Abud Omar, Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Alpha Onyango, Marvin Nabwire, Austin Odhiambo, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam.
Full Harambee Stars CHAN Squad
Goalkeepers: Farouk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa
Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders: Chrispine Erambo, Brian Michira, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Forwards: Edward Omondi, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
