Blow for Gor Mahia or blessing in disguise? Key players left out of Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars squad

Gor Mahia fans were left surprised after several key players were omitted from Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.

While some may view the exclusions as a major snub, the situation might be a blessing in disguise as the club intensifies its hunt for a record-extending 22nd league title.

One of the biggest surprises was the exclusion of Austin Odhiambo, Gor Mahia’s top scorer this season with eight goals.

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The midfielder has been the team’s talisman, providing both goals and creativity in the final third.

His absence from the national team is unexpected, considering his consistent performances in the league.

Another key omission is Alpha Onyango, who has recently found a goal-scoring touch, netting three times in his last five matches.

His growing influence in midfield made him a strong candidate for a call-up, but McCarthy opted to leave him out.

Defensively, Gor Mahia’s center-back duo of Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija, along with new signing Lawrence Juma, were also overlooked.

Their absence from the national team could, however, work in Gor Mahia’s favor as they remain fresh for the crucial final stretch of the league campaign.

Only two Gor Mahia players, Ronney Onyango and Ben Stanley, were included in the Harambee Stars squad.

However, neither featured in Gor Mahia’s recent league match against Bandari FC.

Ronney Onyango, in particular, has been linked with a move away from the club, which could explain his reduced involvement.

While Gor Mahia initially had the highest representation in McCarthy’s provisional squad, most of their players did not honor their call-ups due to a crucial league fixture against Bandari FC at Dandora Stadium.

The defending champions proved their quality, securing a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Christopher Ochieng and Alpha Onyango.

As it stands, Gor Mahia sits third on the FKF Premier League table with 42 points, trailing leaders Kenya Police (45 points) and second-placed Tusker (44 points).

With the title race entering a critical phase, the decision to keep their key players available for domestic action could be the difference in securing another championship.

Could these omissions ultimately prove to be a masterstroke for Gor Mahia? If their refreshed squad can capitalize on the extra rest and maintain their momentum, the Harambee Stars snub may turn out to be a blessing rather than a setback.