7 Harambee Stars Players With a Point to Prove Heading Into CHAN 2024

Benni McCarthy named his final 25-man Harambee Stars squad for the upcoming CHAN 2024 tournament, but these seven players have alot to play for.

As Kenya's Harambee Stars prepare to host DR Congo in their opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Kasarani Stadium, all eyes will be on a squad full of potential and promise.

 While veterans will anchor the team, several players are heading into the tournament with something to prove—whether it's fighting for a permanent spot in the starting lineup, overcoming injuries, or using the platform to secure professional moves abroad.

Here are seven Kenyan players who will be under the microscope as the CHAN 2024 tournament kicks off:

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Mohammed Bajaber

Mohammed Bajaber is in a race against time to be fully fit in time for Harambee Stars’ first game against DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium.

Bajaber, who burst to prominence after netting a wonder goal on his debut for the side during their 3-3 draw with Gambia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, will be expected to be one of the players that can make a difference for the side.

Given his one v one ability, as well as his knack for the unpredictable, he will be expected to shoulder the creative burden for the side alongside experienced vice captain Bonface Muchiri, as well as the likes of Austin Odhiambo and Ben Stanley Omondi (more on him below).

Many Kenyans will be expecting him to be able to unlock tight games, given with great pressure, comes great responsibility. Whether he will be able to shoulder that burden is another thing.

Masoud Juma

Masoud Juma has a great opportunity to show why he has the capability to lead the line for Harambee Stars on his own.

Despite his experience, he has often played second fiddle to Michael Olunga, or had to play on the flanks for the national team.

However, he has a chance to remind people of his exploits from his 2017 season at Kariobangi Sharks, when he netted 23 goals in all competitions and earned a move to Cape Town City, incidentally under the tutelage of Benni McCarthy.

Despite becoming a sort of journeyman since going professional, a good display could earn him a move back to North Africa or even South Africa.

Ben Stanley Omondi

Ben Stanley Omondi is a player that has been through the ranks since his pre-teenage years, given he was part of the U13 side that represented Kenya in Southampton back in 2017.

He has since gradually crafted his game on loan from Migori Youth, playing for the likes of Sofapaka, Ulinzi Stars, Kakamega Homeboyz and now Gor Mahia, who he scored the maiden goal for in the FKF Cup final against Nairobi United.

He grabbed an assist on his debut for Kenya against Chad playing on the right wing. His ability to make late runs into the box, strike the ball well, deliver inch-perfect crosses and vision could be valuable attributes for the side during the tournament.

David Sakwa

Eyebrows were raised when David Sakwa first earned a call up to the side under Benni McCarthy, but the forward has earned the South African’s trust.

The winger has struggled for consistency for Bandari, but for the national team, has proven a direct threat who can shoot and pass with both feet, an attribute that McCarthy must value.

He got an assist on his first start for the side against Chad in June, and bring something different to Bajaber and Muchiri. He may only play a peripheral part, but every minute he gets will without doubt, be valuable.

Byrne Omondi

Byrne Omondi was brought back from the cold for the first time since January after a season that has seen him battle injuries while playing for Bandari.

Arguably the most complete goalkeeper in Kenya at the moment, his distribution will be of significant value during the tournament, as will his command of area and excellent saves. His composure will also be a welcome addition, something his competitor Farouk Shikhalo may lack.

Of all keepers in camp, he has the highest number of caps since making his debut against Pakistan in June 2023. Farouk Shikhalo may have been part of the squad that played at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, but he has not amassed as many caps as his Bandari teammate.

Kevin Okumu

Another player with a great chance to show what he can do, Kevin Okumu earned his maiden call up to the setup for the upcoming tournament.

Okumu will be competing for a starting berth at right back alongside Daniel Sakari and Lewis Bandi, and his tough tackling nature, energetic runs up and down the pitch and exquisite crosses could be valuable. 

Austin Odongo

The youngest member of the squad, Shabana forward Austin Odongo ‘Last Born’  will be keen to compete for a starting berth alongside Juma, Ryan Ogam and Felix Oluoch.

Odongo scored five goals in his last seven appearances for Tore Bobe, and their fans will be keen to see if his form can be translated onto the national team fold.

Odongo is of ripe enough age to market himself and earn a move to another club - maybe even launch his professional career abroad.

With CHAN 2024 offering a rare opportunity for locally-based players to shine on a continental stage, the pressure is high—and so is the potential reward. Whether it’s securing a move abroad, breaking into the first team, or proving doubters wrong, these seven players will know they are playing not just for Kenya, but for their football futures.

The stage is set. Now, it’s time to perform.