Benni McCarthy Changes Harambee Stars Squad After CHAN 2024 Friendly Loss

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy (Credit: FKF Media)

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Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy (Credit: FKF Media)

Benni McCarthy Changes Harambee Stars Squad After CHAN 2024 Friendly Loss

Stephen Awino 09:30 - 16.07.2025

Benni McCarthy has reshuffled the Harambee Stars CHAN squad after a poor friendly performance behind closed door.

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has made several changes to his 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad following a disappointing performance in a behind-closed-doors friendly match.

The national team played against a select team of former Kariobangi Sharks players at Kasarani Annex, and the results raised eyebrows.

The match was played in three halves, with the final scores reading 1-0, 0-0, and 0-2 in favor of the Sharks side.

Gor Mahia's Austin Odhiambo scored the only goal for Harambee Stars, while Eli Asieche and Shaphan Siwa netted for the Sharks select.

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Late Call-Ups: Nabwire and Odhiambo Brought In

How Marvin Nabwire earned Harambee Stars callup from Benni McCarthy.
How Marvine Nabwire earned Harambee Stars callup from Benni McCarthy. (Photo Courtesy) How Marvin Nabwire earned Harambee Stars callup from Benni McCarthy.

Following the uninspiring display, McCarthy acted swiftly by bringing in new reinforcements.

Goalkeeper Bryne Odhiambo has been called up to strengthen the goalkeeping unit, while midfielder Marvin Nabwire from Police FC has also joined the camp.

Nabwire's inclusion is particularly noteworthy, as his display against Harambee Stars caught the eye of the national team selectors.

Five Players Dropped as Competition Tightens

Harambee Stars
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy ©Backpage

As the competition for spots intensifies, five players have been dropped from the provisional squad.

Brian Opondo, the Tusker FC goalkeeper, Kelly Madada from AFC Leopards, Keith Imbali of Shabana FC, Ulinzi Stars winger Yakeen Muteheli, and his club teammate Staphod Odhiambo have all been left out.

McCarthy’s decisions underline his approach to team selection and his insistence on form and fitness ahead of loyalty or reputation.

With more preparatory matches expected in the lead-up to the CHAN qualifiers, the squad remains fluid, and further changes could follow as McCarthy continues to fine-tune his team.