Benni McCarthy Reveals Final 25-Man Squad for CHAN 2024
Benni McCarthy, the head coach of Kenya’s men’s national football team, has unveiled the final 25-man squad for the African Nations Championships (CHAN). The selection comes ahead of the July 23 deadline for all 19 teams to submit their rosters. The tournament is set to kick off on August 2 at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, with Tanzania facing Burkina Faso in the opening match.
Kenya will make its debut a day later, taking on two-time champions DR Congo at the Kasarani Stadium. This marks the beginning of what many are calling the “Group of Death,” as the team will also face Morocco and Zambia in Group A.
Key Players in the Squad
Masoud Juma, the experienced striker, leads the Harambee Stars squad after being signed by a National Super League (NSL) side. He will spearhead the attack alongside Tusker FC’s Ryan Ogam, Bandari FC’s David Sakwa, and Posta Rangers’ Felix Oluoch.
Mohammed Bajaber, a rising star from Kenya Police, has been included despite ongoing concerns about his fitness. He will play on the flanks alongside Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri. Shabana FC’s Austin ‘Lastborn’ Odongo rounds out the forward line.
In midfield, last season’s Most Valuable Player, Austine Odhiambo, is part of the squad, along with his Gor Mahia teammates Alpha Onyango and Ben Stanley. Additional midfielders include Brian Musa and Marvin Nabwire.
The defense is led by captain Aboud Omar, who will be supported by recent AFCON U20 stars Swaleh Pamba, Kevin Okumu, and Lewis Bandi. Omar will be assisted by Daniel Sakari and Alphonce Omija in the leadership group.
Fan Reactions to the Squad
Fans have responded positively to the squad, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to perform well at home. Sally Bolo, vice president of Gor Mahia, said:
“Best of luck to our boys as they head into the CHAN tournament. We’re fully behind you. Make the most of the home ground advantage and make Kenya proud.”
Other fans have shared their thoughts online. TemperCR7 commented:
“A good team! Reminder players watano hapo ni wa Gor Mahia! Honestly, I want to see Marvin’s partnership with Austin. Also rooting for Felix Oluoch.”
Juma Bet added:
“The squad’s locked in! Coach Benni McCarthy mixing experience with that raw talent – Masoud Juma and Austin Odhiambo looking sharp up front. With our home venues at CAF Category Four status, Harambee Stars are ready to make some noise at CHAN 2024! Squad’s got that winning balance. Tupatane Kasarani!”
Match Schedule at CHAN 2024
Kenya will host all of its group stage matches at the Kasarani Stadium. The team will first face DR Congo on August 3, followed by Angola on August 7. The group stage will conclude with a tough encounter against two-time champions Morocco, before finishing against Zambia.
Full List of Selected Players
Goalkeepers
Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa
Defenders
Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Pamba Swaleh, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders
Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Forwards
Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
Why Masoud Juma Was Included
McCarthy explained that Masoud Juma had recently signed with an NSL club, which justified his inclusion in the squad. However, his selection has sparked some debate, as CHAN is reserved for players who represent local teams. Juma, who was previously playing in Iran with Esteghal FC, now joins the squad after securing a contract with a Kenyan club.
