2025 AFCON Q: Engin Firat lists 28-Man squad for Cameroon clash
On a streak of 7 games without defeat, Kenya’s Engin Firat is looking for an upset when Kenya play Cameroon on October 11.
The gaffer had announced a 28-man provisional squad for crucial AFCON qualifiers against Cameroon.
The highly anticipated matches are scheduled for October 11 in Douala, Cameroon and October 14 in Kampala, Uganda, as Kenya looks to secure its place in the prestigious tournament set to take place in Morocco.
The 28-man squad reflects a balanced mix of both local-based talent and international stars designed to blend experience and youthful exuberance.
Firat’s selection underlines his confidence in the ability of Kenyan players both at home and abroad to rise to the occasion against a formidable opponent like Cameroon.
Among the local-based players, Gor Mahia continues to dominate with five of their stars called up: Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Geoffrey Ochieng, Ronney Onyango and Austine Odhiambo.
K’Ogalo remains a key contributor to the national team, underscoring the quality of its players in recent seasons. Bandari FC’s Byrne Omondi and Ulinzi Stars’ versatile midfielder Bonface Muchiri also join the roster further boosting the local representation.
A standout inclusion from the local scene is Tusker FC’s David Odoyo who receives his first-ever senior national team call-up.
Sydney Lokale from AFC Leopards makes a return to the national setup after an extended absence bringing with him experience and attacking versatility.
On the international front team captain Michael Olunga is once again the focal point as the Al-Duhail striker has been in red-hot form in Qatar, consistently finding the back of the net and leading his team’s charge domestically.
Other foreign-based players called up include Denmark-based defender Daniel Anyembe, who has impressed with his performances for Viborg FF.
Johnstone Omurwa Saudi First Division League (second tier) side Abha Club adds strength to the backline. Meanwhile, Alfred Scriven a promising forward who plays for Norwegian club Raufoss IL offers additional firepower in attack.
The squad also welcomes back Raków Częstochowa’s left-back Eric Ouma who has been a consistent performer in Poland.
Ouma’s defensive reliability and ability to surge forward and create chances will provide Kenya with an additional attacking dimension.
Midfield enforcer Richard Odada currently playing for Dundee United in Scotland brings tenacity and control in the middle of the park.
Notable absentees from Firat’s squad include Ayub Timbe and Daniel Anyembe raising questions among fans and pundits alike.
Both players have been key contributors to the national team in recent years but their exclusion from the squad hints at tactical changes or concerns over fitness and form.
Kenya’s preparations for the double-header will begin on Friday, October 4 when the team convenes for a residential camp.
The first leg of the double-header is set to take place at Japoma Stadium in Douala on Friday, October 11.
The return leg, scheduled for Monday, October 14 will be held at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda behind closed doors due to logistical issues.
Here is the provisional Harambee Stars squad set to face Cameroon in the AFCON qualifiers.
Goalkeepers
Ian Otieno (Richards Bay FC), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police), Byrne Omondi (Bandari)
Defenders
Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia), Daniel Anyembe (Viborg), Amos Nondi (Ararat), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Johnstone Omurwa (Abha), Collins Sichenje (Vojvodina), Joseph Okumu (Reims), Geoffrey Ochieng (Gor Mahia), Eric Ouma (Rakow)
Midfielders
David Odoyo (Tusker), Chrispine Erambo (Tusker), Richard Odada (Dundee United), John Ochieng (Zanaco), Timothy Ouma (Elfsborg), Anthony Akumu (Kheybar), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Alfred Scriven (Bryne FK), Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia)
Forwards
John Avire (El Sekka El Hadid), Michael Olunga (Duhail-Oman), Jonah Ayunga (ST. Mirren-Scotland), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Adam Wilson (New Saints), Sydney Lokale (AFC Leopards)
