Harambee Stars announce squad for CHAN Qualifiers against South Sudan

By Robert Mutasi 

Harambee Stars have announced a travelling team for the decisive second leg of the 2025 African Nations Championship Qualifiers against South Sudan. 

The match, to be played in Uganda, becomes very crucial for the Stars as they look to book a spot in the forthcoming tournament.

Under the leadership of head coach Engin Firat, the team has assembled an eclectic roster that has a good mix of experience and emerging talent. 

This selection shows Kenya is committed to building a good side at continental levels of competition.

In goal, the Harambee Stars will trust Byrne Odhiambo and Faruk Shikalo, both putting up solid performances in domestic competitions. Their talent at this point will come in handy to ensure that the base is firm.

The backline will be represented by some seasoned campaigners and promising defenders like Abud Omar, Siraj Mohammed, Ian Karani, David Ochieng, Sylvester Owino, Daniel Sakari, and Charles Momanyi, who will be expected to stall the attacking threats of South Sudan.

Their cohesion and solidity will have to be tested in the face of high stakes.

Midfield is another strong point in the Harambee Stars, blessed with both creativity and tenacity.

Notable mentions include Ronney Onyango and Marvin Nabwire, who have been instrumental in their respective clubs. 

Issa Lumumba, Fidel Origa, Chrispine Erambo, Vincent Owino, Caleb Oilio, Austine Odhiambo, and Mootian Leshan complete the midfield formation with an excellent mix of playmaking and holding duties needed for game control.

The attacking trio of Patrick Otieno, Ryan Ogam, and Moses Shuma is dynamic, with Francis Kahiro providing options.

Their pace and finishing will be key in unlocking the South Sudan defense and turning those chances into goals.

The first leg ended in stalemate, making this away leg highly tempting.

The Harambee Stars have to win to take pole position in the qualifiers for sure qualification to the prestigious African tournament.

The morale of the team is reportedly high, with players out to ensure a sterling performance in front of some of the most passionate fan bases.

As the match draws closer, the fans wait with bated breath for the Harambee Stars to make their way into CHAN 2025, hoping for a feat that will be remembered across the country.

It is going to be a thrilling encounter, and these tactical acumen of Coach Firat might just be what the team needs, along with the determination of the players themselves.