Young right-back Baron Ochieng will join the Harambee Stars squad in Malawi ahead of Friday’s World Cup qualifier against Burundi after receiving a late call-up to strengthen the defense.
Ochieng, a Sofapaka right-back, could realize his dream of wearing the Harambee Stars jersey sooner than expected. He is the latest addition to coach Engin Firat’s squad, brought in due to injuries and fitness issues in the backline. Ochieng will link up with the team in Lilongwe, Malawi, ahead of the match against Burundi.
Kenya is set to face Burundi on June 7 before playing Ivory Coast four days later in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Bingu National Stadium. Coach Firat faces key selection challenges, particularly in defense. Ochieng’s inclusion adds competition for the right-back position, where Daniel Anyembe and new call-up Tobias Knost are the current specialists.
If selected, it will be a significant milestone for Ochieng, given his rapid rise over the past six months. He was part of Kenya’s U20 side at the Four Nations tournament in Malawi in March, following a standout performance at the 2023 CECAFA Under-18 tournament. His impressive displays at CECAFA even attracted scouts from Spain’s famed Nastic Soccer Academy, which is home to some of his colleagues, including Aldrine Kibet.
Ochieng’s first experience with the national team came in 2020 when he played for the Kenya U17 side while still a student at Dagoretti High School. “I am looking forward to playing for the senior team. That has always been my dream. It is my wish to represent the country,” Ochieng told Pulse Sports in May.
Now, the opportunity has arrived, and it is up to him to impress his national team coach and make his mark on the big stage.
