By Caleb Muoti
The Kenya men’s national football team Harambee Stars has left to Ivory Coast this Tuesday 18th March, 2025, ahead of their upcoming 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier away match against Gambia on Thursday 20.
Harambee Stars skipper Michael Olunga has shared his thoughts ahead of their important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Gambia and Gabon.
These two games are critical for the team’s chances of securing a spot in the world tournament.
”Every player is ready for the first assignment of the year, that is an away match against Gambia and at home against Gabon,” Olunga said before their departure.
”We all believe in the new boss and the technical bench, Benni MacCarthy, who has come up with a strong squad which is ready to compete at the highest level,” Olunga added.
McCarthy, who took charge of the team on March 12, has expressed his excitement on leading the team in his first two World cup qualifiers.
”I am eager to work with this very talented squad I ‘ve selected for the campaign. There is plenty of hardwork and dedication, and we are ready for the challenge.
Notably, on form Kenya Police Fc forward Mohammed Bajaber and Kenya Under-20 Manzur Okwaro have earned a spot in the final squad while Eric Johana, Daniel Anyembe and Richard Odada will join the team in Abidjan.
This will be a special occasion as it marks the Harambee Stars’ first home match in over four years, making it a highly anticipated event for both the players and fans.
Harambee Stars are 4th in group F currently with 5 points, 5 points behind table leaders Ivory Coast.