Kibet handed first senior cap as McCarthy names squad for Madagascar, Comoros friendlies

Teen sensation Aldrine Kibet headlines the squad after earning his first-ever senior national team call-up. The Celta Vigo B midfielder has been in fine form, impressing both at club level and with Kenya’s youth sides. His inclusion underlines the technical bench’s intent to inject fresh talent into the national setup.

Head coach McCarthy has also recalled several familiar faces, including Jonah Ayunga, Ovella Ochieng, Brian Opondo, and Baron Ochieng, returning to the national team fold. Ayunga, who missed the previous World Cup qualifiers through injury, will be looking to reignite his scoring touch.

At the same time, Ovella Ochieng — now with CAF Confederation Cup group-stage side Nairobi United — brings much-needed pace and creativity to the attack.

Baron Ochieng, formerly of Sofapaka and currently at Zamalek, made his senior debut during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and Burundi. His continued presence highlights Kenya’s focus on developing young, competitive talent.

The friendly fixtures will serve as crucial preparation for future international competitions, particularly as Kenya shifts its focus toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which it will co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.

 Although the Stars missed out on qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, the upcoming matches will help the technical team fine-tune tactics and test squad depth.

McCarthy emphasized in a past interview that the blend of youth and experience is deliberate and aimed at building a strong foundation for long-term success. Kenya will face Madagascar on November 14 before concluding their tour with a clash against Comoros on November 17 or 18 (date to be confirmed).

Harambee Stars Final Squad

Goalkeepers

 Byrne Omondi (Gor Mahia), Brian Bwire (Polokwane City), Brian Opondo (Tusker FC)

Defenders

Vincent Harper (Walsall), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Étoile Sportive du Sahel), Michael Kibwage (Gor Mahia), Ronney Onyango (Sogndal), Manzur Suleiman (Nairobi United), Baron Ochieng (Zamalek)

Midfielders

Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Timothy Ouma (Lech Poznań), Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police FC)

Attackers

Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), William Lenkupae (VPS), Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Adam Wilson (New Saints), Aldrine Kibet (Celta Fortuna), Ovella Ochieng (Nairobi United), Jonah Ayunga (St. Mirren), Ryan Ogam (Wolfsberger), Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinäjoki)