7 Harambee Stars' Local Talents Knocking on Benni McCarthy’s CHAN Door

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy is looking to build a formidable squad for CHAN.(Credit: FKF Media)

i

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy is looking to build a formidable squad for CHAN.(Credit: FKF Media)

7 Harambee Stars' Local Talents Knocking on Benni McCarthy’s CHAN Door

Stephen Awino 17:38 - 13.06.2025

Under new head coach Benni McCarthy, Harambee Stars impressed in the Chad friendlies with standout performances from key players who are already knocking in the door for place in the CHAN squad.

The Harambee Stars continued a promising chapter under head coach Benni McCarthy with a pair of friendlies against Chad that showcased a blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance.

A goalless draw in the first leg followed by a crucial win in the second breathed life into McCarthy’s reign.

Pulse Sports takes a look at seven standout performers from those matches, who have not only impressed the fans but also likely cemented their spots in the coach’s plans moving forward.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

7. Sylvester Owino

Gor Mahia
Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars defender Sylvester Owino.

The Gor Mahia centre-back played a crucial role in the second leg against Chad, helping the team keep a clean sheet.

His positioning, aerial prowess, and calm distribution under pressure were vital in maintaining defensive solidity.

K'Ogalo's rock at the back continues to grow into one of the country's most reliable defenders.

6. Farouk Shikhalo

Harambee Stars
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Farouk Shikalo (Photo credit:Yanga)

Usually McCarthy’s first-choice goalkeeper, Shikhalo continues to provide leadership and security between the posts.

Although he faces growing competition from the in-form Brian Bwire, his experience and command of the box make him a critical asset for the national side.

5. Alphonce Omija

Gor Mahia
Gor Mahia defender Alphonce Omija during a past training session with the Kenyan national football team Harambee Stars. Gor Mahia defender Alphonce Omija has opened up on the unusual way he received his first call-up for the national team Harambee Stars.

Another dependable Gor Mahia defender, Omija was instrumental in the 0-0 draw in the first leg, showcasing strong tackling and composure.

His partnership at the back with Owino at club level hints at a new defensive pairing that could anchor Kenya's backline for years to come.

4. David Sakwa

Harambee Stars
David Sakwa (right) in action for Harambee Stars against Chad. Photo: FKF

FC Talanta’s red-hot striker David Sakwa continued his sensational domestic form at the international level.

With 16 goals in the FKF Premier League this season, Sakwa brought his goal-scoring instincts to Harambee Stars, netting in McCarthy’s maiden win and proving he's ready for bigger challenges on the international stage.

3. Emmanuel Osoro

Harambee Stars
Emmanuel Osoro (L) and Austin Odhiambo (R) of Harambee Stars: Photo || FKF Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo (L) and scorer of Harambee Stars goal against Chad Emmanuel Osoro (Credit: FKF)

Another player who got his name on the scoresheet, Osoro gave Kenya a crucial boost in attack.

His ability to find space and make intelligent runs behind the defense makes him an exciting attacking option in McCarthy’s set-up.

2. Austin Odhiambo

Gor Mahia
Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo.

Operating in midfield, Odhiambo was a key orchestrator of play.

The Gor Mahia midfieder's vision and distribution helped link defense and attack, giving Harambee Stars the creative edge they needed to break down a resilient Chad side.

His chemistry with fellow midfielders stood out as a positive sign for future fixtures.

1. Alpha Onyango

Gor Mahia’s midfield dynamo Alpha Onyango was arguably the standout performer over the two legs.

His dominance in midfield, work rate, and tactical discipline were central to the team’s success.

Onyango was everywhere, breaking up play, launching counterattacks, and setting the tempo. If McCarthy is looking for a midfield leader, he may have already found one.

The early signs under Benni McCarthy are encouraging. The team looks more structured, hungrier, and tactically sharper.

With key players stepping up and new talents emerging, Harambee Stars could finally be on the path toward fulfilling their long-untapped potential.