Gor Mahia’s midfield star Austin Odhiambo is among the high-profile names dropped from the Harambee Stars squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The omission came as a surprise to many fans, especially after Odhiambo’s strong showing at the 2024 African Nations Championship.
The 23-man squad, named by head coach Benni McCarthy on Wednesday, August 27, included several familiar faces and a few new additions but also excluded players who were key performers in recent tournaments.
Austin Odhiambo Missing from Harambee Stars Squad
One of the biggest talking points from McCarthy’s announcement is the absence of Austin Odhiambo. The Gor Mahia midfielder played a pivotal role during the CHAN tournament, where he scored two important goals in the group stages, helping Kenya secure four crucial points.
His ability to create opportunities and his energy in midfield made him one of the standout performers in the competition. However, despite his impact, Odhiambo did not feature in the quarter-final match against Madagascar.
He remained an unused substitute as Harambee Stars exited the tournament after losing on penalties. Many expected him to bounce back into the starting squad for the World Cup qualifiers, but McCarthy’s final list left him out completely.
His omission has fueled speculation, especially since he remains fit and in form for Gor Mahia. Fans and pundits alike are questioning why one of the most reliable players at CHAN was overlooked.
Other Notable Omissions and Inclusions
Odhiambo was not the only big name missing. Eric “Marcelo” Ouma, who plays for Raków Częstochowa in Poland, also failed to make the squad. Ouma has been a dependable left-back for Kenya, but an ongoing injury ruled him out of contention.
Other players who featured in CHAN but did not make the World Cup qualifiers squad include Mohamed Siraj, Daniel Sakari, Chrispine Erambo, and Masoud Juma. While Juma’s exclusion was expected due to recurring injuries, Odhiambo’s case has caused more debate.
McCarthy, however, balanced his selection by calling up several Kenyan internationals based abroad. Michael Olunga, the team captain and top striker, leads the attack, while midfielders Richard Odada and Timothy Ouma bring strength and creativity. Defender Collins Sichenje and goalkeeper Brian Bwire are also part of the squad.
Another CHAN hero, Ryan Wesley Ogam, received a deserved call-up after his commanding performances at the back. Brian Muchiri, who impressed in the forward role during CHAN, will also support Olunga upfront.
World Cup Qualifiers Schedule
Kenya will begin their World Cup qualifying campaign with two back-to-back matches at home. The Harambee Stars will face The Gambia on Friday, September 5, at the Kasarani Stadium. Kick-off is set for 4 pm, although FIFA may adjust the timing.
Just four days later, on Tuesday, September 9, Kenya will host Seychelles at the same venue, again in the afternoon. These matches will be crucial for Kenya’s push to qualify for the World Cup, with six points at stake in front of their home fans.
Meanwhile, Nyayo Stadium will also play a role in the qualifiers, hosting a Group F clash between The Gambia and Burundi. That match, scheduled for 10 pm under floodlights, will be an unusual but exciting fixture for local fans.
After the two home matches, Harambee Stars will travel away to face Burundi on Monday, October 6. A week later, they will take on Ivory Coast, the strongest team in the group, in a decisive encounter.
What Odhiambo’s Omission Means
For now, Austin Odhiambo will watch from the sidelines as his teammates battle for a place in the World Cup. His absence leaves a gap in midfield creativity and experience, something Harambee Stars may feel against tough opponents.
Coach McCarthy is expected to defend his selection in the coming days, but many fans believe that Odhiambo’s skill, form, and passion deserved a place in the squad. Whether this decision pays off will depend on Kenya’s performance in September and October.
One thing remains certain—Austin Odhiambo’s story with the national team is far from over. His talent and determination could yet force his way back into the Harambee Stars lineup in future campaigns.
