• Kenya to participate as a guest team
• Mixture of seasoned players and promising youngsters
• Reasons for inclusion of experienced players
• Kenya provisional squad
• #UgSportsNow
Kenya’s vibrant football scene is set to showcase its emerging talent as the Harambee Stars U23 squad has been announced by coach Ken Odhiambo for the upcoming 2024 COSAFA Cup. This year, Kenya has been invited to participate as a guest team in the prestigious tournament, highlighting the country’s growing football prowess on the continental stage.
Mixture of seasoned players and promising youngsters
The selection of the squad aligns with the vision of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to provide a platform for the nation’s young talents, allowing them to gain invaluable international experience and exposure. The inclusion of a mix of seasoned players and promising youngsters underscores the commitment to nurturing and developing a pool of skilled footballers for the national team.
Reasons for inclusion of experienced players
Among the notable names in the provisional squad are experienced players such as Anthony Akumu and Johnstone Omurwa, who bring a wealth of expertise and leadership to the team. These seasoned campaigners will provide valuable guidance and mentorship to the younger players, helping them navigate the challenges of international competition.
Also read: COSAFA Cup 2024: Kenya to Participate as Guest Team
In addition to the established stars, the squad features exciting prospects like U18 sensations Amos Wanjala and Aldrine Kibet, who caught the eye with their performances at the CECAFA U18 Championships. Their inclusion signifies the focus on youth development and talent identification within the Kenyan football setup, with an emphasis on rewarding merit and potential.
The coaching setup for the team will see Ken Odhiambo leading the charge, supported by William Muluya, his compatriot in the senior national team. With their guidance and expertise, the players are poised to make a strong impression at the COSAFA Cup and demonstrate the depth of talent present in Kenyan football.
Also read: COSAFA Cup:South Africa’s Mkhalele Summons 51-man Squad
Kenya provisional squad:
Goalkeepers; Bryne Omondi (Bandari), Brian Bwire (Tusker), Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks), Ibrahim Wanzala (Kakamega Homeboyz).
The squad comprises a mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, each bringing their unique skills and strengths to the table. Notable inclusions across different positions include Bryne Omondi, Brian Bwire, Alphonce Omija, Wilson Stanley, Benson Omalla, and Samuel Kapen, among others, who will look to make their mark on the tournament.
Defenders; Alphonce Omija (Dhofar, Oman), Paul Ochuoga (Gor Mahia), Boniface Onyango (Tusker), Geoffrey Onyango (Kariobangi Sharks), Hanniff Wesonga (KCB), Amos Wanjala (Nastic Sports Academy, Spain), Johnstone Omurwa (Portugal), Faiz Opande (USA), Baron Ochieng (Sofapaka).
Midfielders; Wilson Stanley (Kariobangi Sharks), Shariff Musa (Gor Mahia), John Ochieng (Zanaco, Zambia), Anthony Akumu (Unattached), Chrispine Erambo (Tusker), Aldrine Kibet (Nastic Sports, Spain), Bajaber Mohammed (City Stars), Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Austin Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Rooney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Patrick Otieno (Posta Rangers), Hassan Beja (AFC Leopards), Emmanuel Osoro (Nzoia Sugar), William Gatimu (Bandari), Fortune Omoto (Kariobangi Sharks), Kaycie Odhiambo (AFC Leopards).
Forwards; Benson Omalla (Gor Mahia), Josphat Lopaga (Dynamo Brest, Belarus), Samuel Kapen (Nairobi City Stars), Moses Shummah (Kakamega Homeboyz), Zech Obiero (Leyton Orient, England), George Gitau (Middlesborough, England), Jeremy Bissau (Brooke House College, England).
As Kenya gears up for the COSAFA Cup, the Harambee Stars U23 squad stands ready to embrace the challenge and showcase their skills on the continental stage. With a blend of experience, talent, and potential, the team is well-positioned to make a strong statement and uphold the nation’s footballing reputation at the tournament.
