Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has announced a provisional squad for the upcoming Four Nations Tournament set to be held in Malawi later this month (March 18th – 26th, 2024).
The squad, revealed by head coach Engin Firat, boasts a blend of experienced professionals featuring in top leagues across Europe and Africa, alongside promising talents from the Kenyan domestic scene.
Here’s a breakdown of the key areas:
Goalkeepers: The goalkeeping department sees the inclusion of dependable figures like Ian Otieno, currently playing for Zesco United in Zambia, and Patrick Matasi from Kenya Police.
Defense: A strong defensive line-up features seasoned campaigners like Collins Sichenje (AIK-Sweden), Joseph Okumu (Reims-France), and Abud Omar (Kenya Police). Youngster Dennis Ng’ang’a, who recently joined Zanaco FC in Zambia, also receives a call-up.
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Midfield: The midfield core is packed with creativity and experience. Alphonce Omija (Dhofar Club, Oman) and Anthony Akumu (Sagan Tosu, Japan) bring their technical prowess, while the likes of Richard Odada (Aalborg, Denmark) and Ayub Timbe (Sebail, Azerbaijan) offer pace and attacking threat.
Forwards: Kenya’s attacking options are bolstered by the inclusion of the in-form Michael Olunga (Duhail SC, Oman), the Scottish Premiership’s Jonah Ayunga (St. Mirren), and local star Benson Omalla (Gor Mahia).
This provisional squad signifies Kenya’s intent to compete at a high level in the tournament. Coach Firat will be aiming to assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses while providing valuable playing time to fringe players alongside established names.
Full Provisional Squad:
Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno (Zesco United), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police), Byrne Odhiambo (Bandari FC), Bonphas Munyasa (Muranga Seal)
Defenders: Collins Sichenje (AIK Fotboll), Joseph Okumu (Stade de Reims), Johnstone Omurwa (GD Estrela da Amadora), Dennis Ng’ang’a (Zanaco FC), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg FF), Amos Nondi (FC Ararat Yerevan), Abud Omar (Kenya Police), Eric Ouma (Rakow Częstochowa)
Midfielders: Alphonce Omija (Dhofar Club), Kaycie Odhiambo (AFC Leopards), Chris Erambo (Tusker FC), Richard Odada (Aalborg BK), Anthony Akumu (Sagan Tosu), Kenneth Muguna (Kenya Police), David Sakwa (Bandari FC), Shariff Musa (Gor Mahia), Ayub Timbe (FK Sabail), Eric Johanna (UTA Arad), Rooney Onyango (Gor Mahia)
Forwards: John Avire (Sekka Sports Club), Michael Olunga (Duhail SC), Jonah Ayunga (St. Mirren), Benson Omalla (Gor Mahia)
It’s important to note that this is a provisional squad and final selections could be made before the tournament kicks off.
