Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has cut his provisional 38-man squad down to a final 24 for the opening qualifiers of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The South African has leaned on a mix of returning experience and fresh talent as Harambee Stars prepare for Group D fixtures against Eritrea and Guinea.

Olunga Returns, Ochieng Breaks Through

The headline inclusion is captain Michael Olunga, back in the fold after roughly five months out following pelvic surgery in Paris that ended his domestic season in Qatar. He sits just one goal away from William Ouma's all-time Kenyan scoring record. He is joined in attack by Real Sociedad winger Job Ochieng, who has quickly become one of Kenya's most exciting exports after a Player of the Match display against Elche, contributing a goal and two assists. Exeter City's Vincent Harper also earns his first senior call-up at left-back.

More Than a Dozen Players Left Out

McCarthy cut 14 names from his original selection to reach the final 24. Vice-captain Joseph Okumu misses out, along with goalkeeper Ian Otieno, Wrexham defender Zak Vyner, Celta Vigo forward Aldrine Kibet, and provisional call-up Louis Millard. Several others were ruled out through injury rather than selection, including Daniel Anyembe (Viborg FF), Zech Obiero (Gillingham FC), and Deon Woodman (Bromley FC), all of whom have had their overseas seasons disrupted this term.

Building Toward a Home Tournament

Kenya have already secured their place at AFCON 2027 as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania, meaning these qualifiers double as valuable preparation rather than must-win survival football. Harambee Stars open their campaign at home to Eritrea at Nyayo Stadium on September 26, before travelling to Conakry to face Guinea on October 1. With a blend of seasoned leaders and rising overseas talent now settled, McCarthy's side will use both matches to build momentum ahead of hosting the tournament itself.