McCarthy tight-lipped on Austin Odhiambo’s omission from World Cup qualifiers squad

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has sidestepped questions surrounding Austin Odhiambo’s omission from Kenya’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles, a decision that has drawn speculation among fans.

Speaking during Harambee Stars’ first training session at the Utalii Grounds, Nairobi, McCarthy maintained confidence in the squad he has selected.  

Odhiambo, who featured only in the opening two matches of Kenya’s CHAN 2024 campaign before being dropped, was overlooked again in the latest call-up.

McCarthy instead focused on defending his selection, citing the balance between the local and foreign-based players' call-up process and rallying support for the team.

“The boys have done incredibly well, and I was very tempted to almost select everybody to the internationals, but I don’t think that would be fair,” McCarthy explained.

“Foreign clubs work hard, expect their players to be selected, so we had to balance the books depending on positions. Unfortunately, we were hampered by quite a few late injuries.”

Among those sidelined with injuries are winger Jonah Ayunga (St. Mirren FC), Midfielder Amos Nondi (Ararat Armenia), Joseph Okumu (Stade Reims), and Eric Marcelo Ouma.

“All the Kenyan players, whether local or abroad, we monitor their progress. In football, surprises happen. Teams like the Ivory Coast and Gabon have been doing well, but anything can change. If you win your remaining matches, you put yourself back in contention. That’s why we pick the strongest squad possible.”

Captain Michael Olunga, who jetted into the country on Monday morning, echoed the coach’s sentiments, promising a spirited fight.

“Gambia are a strong team with quality players, but right now the squad is motivated, spirits are high, and fans are gearing up to support us. We want to replicate the good performance from CHAN,” Olunga stated.

Kenya will host The Gambia on Friday, September 5, before facing Seychelles on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. Both matches are set for 4:00 pm EAT at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The qualifiers are at a critical stage. Africa’s format features home-and-away group games, with winners progressing directly to the World Cup.

The four best runners-up will enter a playoff for a chance to contest FIFA’s intercontinental play-off tournament.

Kenya currently sits fourth in their group with 6 points, behind the Ivory Coast (16), Gabon (15), and Burundi (10). While direct qualification looks slim, McCarthy has rallied the “12th man” to back the team as they aim to finish strongly on home soil.