Predicted Harambee Stars Lineup Against Zimbabwe for 2025 AFCON Qualifier
As Harambee Stars prepare for their opening 2025 AFCON qualifier against Zimbabwe, this is how head coach Engin Firat is likely to set up the team, especially with Michael Olunga’s participation still in doubt due to injury.
Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, faces Zimbabwe in their first Group J match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, aiming to qualify for the tournament for the first time since 2019. Having already beaten Zimbabwe twice this year, can they make it three in a row?
Here’s how Firat could line up the squad:
Patrick Matasi – GK
Matasi has been Firat’s trusted goalkeeper since November 2023, stepping in after Byrne Omondi’s injury against Russia. He has held the position since, with Omondi’s appearances coming in the 2024 COSAFA Cup. Matasi was in goal when Kenya defeated Zimbabwe 3-1 in March, and with his established understanding alongside Joseph Okumu and Johnstone Omurwa, he’s expected to start again.
Alphonce Omija – RB
Omija gained international recognition after his standout performance against Ivory Coast in a 0-0 draw during a 2026 World Cup qualifier. Though versatile enough to play as a defensive midfielder or center-back, all his caps for Kenya have come as a right-back or wide center-back. He is expected to retain his position, especially with Daniel Anyembe unavailable.
Joseph Okumu – CB
Okumu returns to competitive action for Kenya after three years, following a series of injuries that kept him out of the World Cup qualifiers. His return is a huge boost for the defense.
Sylvester Owino – CB
With Omurwa ruled out and Omija covering the right-back position, Firat is left with Owino and Sharrif Majabe as central defensive options. Given Owino’s international experience from the COSAFA Cup, he is likely to get the nod ahead of Majabe.
Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma – LB
Ouma, now fully recovered from a leg injury, is set to start at left-back, replacing Aboud Omar, who is expected to drop to the bench.
Teddy Akumu – CM
Akumu has been a key figure in Kenya’s midfield since their return to international competition after the FIFA-imposed ban. Now playing regularly for Khorramabad in Iran, Akumu, described by Firat as vital to the team, will likely partner Richard Odada in midfield.
Richard Odada – CM
Odada, a consistent performer under Firat, will likely complete the central midfield duo. Now playing for Dundee United, he is expected to bring stability alongside Akumu.
Rooney Onyango – RW
Onyango, an influential figure in the squad, is likely to start on the right wing. His ability to stretch the field and contribute in the final third makes him a key player for this match.
Kenneth Muguna – AM
Muguna is expected to be the creative force in the lineup, with Austin Odhiambo and Duke Abuya as potential substitutes to unlock defenses later in the game. Abuya’s off-the-ball movement and Odhiambo’s line-breaking passes provide Firat with tactical flexibility.
John Avire – LW
With Timothy Ouma unavailable, Firat has Avire and Patrick Odhiambo as options for the left flank. Given Avire’s international experience and versatility, he is the more likely starter.
Benson Omala – CF
With captain Michael Olunga’s availability uncertain, Omala is expected to start as the center-forward. Omala has adapted well to Firat’s system, showing improved hold-up play and ball retention during the COSAFA Cup. However, if Olunga is declared fit, he would likely start.
