Harambee Stars probable starting XI: McCarthy to go pro vs Estonia
By Luke Oluoch, March 27, 2026The Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars, faces a crucial FIFA Series opener against Estonia at the Amahoro Stadium this Friday, March 27, 2026, from 7:00 pm.
The clash will be the first for Kenya after the eight-goal humiliation by Senegal on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in Antalya, Turkey.
The test match comes with its own implications, with a place in the series final at stake.
The winner of the tie will guarantee a berth in the final against the winner of the other clash, pitting Rwanda and Grenada.
Past test
Reflecting on the past thrashing to Senegal, the coach attributed the loss to last-minute fixture changes and the experimental squad comprising largely locally based players with little experience on the international stage against the African champions.
With the remarks hinting at a possible return to fielding pro-based stars, McCarthy will still have to contend with the absence of many regulars after up to ten players withdrew from his initial 23-man squad.
While rallying the team for the task, McCarthy stated that the upcoming series in Kigali, Rwanda, presents a perfect chance for redemption.
“We are playing against Estonia, and if we win, we play the winner of Rwanda and Grenada. It’s a nice little opportunity for us to rectify things and make people forget about the last result,” McCarthy said.
Positive
“We have a chance to put something positive back in the minds of Kenyans.”
The SA tactician is poised to field a predominantly foreign-based team for the clash.
Europe-based Job Ochieng is among the players likely to spearhead the attack in the absence of Jonah Ayunga and skipper Michael Olunga.
Ochieng has been in a scintillating form for his Real Sociedad B team and will look to extend the fine run to international duty.
Keeper Ian Otieno, who marks his return to the national team fold, is likely to provide cover at goal with his two understudies Brian Bwire and Faruk Shikalo starting from the bench.
Starting X1
Meanwhile, the defense line will also see a number of alterations with the marauding Ronney Onyango and Frank Odhiambo, who has been in fine form with Gor Mahia starting.
Probable XI: Ian Otieno (GK), Ronney Onyango, Frank Odhiambo, Alphonce Omija, Abud Omar, Richard Odada, Mansur Okwaro, Alpha Onyango, Job Ochieng, Duke Abuya, Ryan Ogam
Substitutes: Faruk Shikhalo (GK) Brian Bwire (GK), Daniel Sakari, Austin Odhiambo Mike Kibwage, Ben Stanley Omondi, Chrispine Erambo, Will Lenkupae, Mohammed Bajaber, Zech Obiero, Clarke Oduor, Lawrence Okoth,