Hit or Miss! Harambee Stars’ fresh call-ups’ performance in June friendlies analysed
In line with the growing trend of introducing a new batch of talent to the national team, head coach Benni McCarthy handed senior bows to five players during Kenya’s international friendly matches this June.
The back-to-back ties kicked off with Kenya being held to a 1-1 draw before the team showed an extra edge to outsmart Lesotho 4-0 in Sunday’s return leg at the Lucas Moripe Stadium. Following the conclusion of these friendlies, these rising stars are now poised to make their competitive debuts in upcoming matches if they get the nod from McCarthy.
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Here is a snippet of how the new call-ups performed.
Deon Woodman and Micah Obiero
The duo from English lower-tier side Wealdstone FC kicked off their national team stints in dream fashion. Obiero replicated his brother’s historic feat by bagging an assist just nine minutes into his Stars debut.
Meanwhile, towering centre-back Deon Woodman was among the standout performers, anchoring the backline alongside Alphonse Omija in his non-competitive bow for Kenya.
An all-round assured game summed up a fine showing for the newcomer, leaving fans and the technical bench excited about what the young defender could bring to the squad in the future.
Sammy Henia-Kamau
England-based attacker Sammy Henia-Kamau also earned his debut against Lesotho. Kamau has been a mainstay in the English lower-tier league, with past stints at Swansea City and Hull City’s reserves. He looked in his element on the ball and seamlessly found his way past his markers in his brief cameo.
Sydney ‘Cesc’ Jean Agina
Also making his bow was England-based right-back Sydney Agina, who features for Stoke City. Playing on the front foot, Agina showed immediate intent to contribute to the Stars’ offensive push. He fittingly registered an assist for Lawrence Ouma’s goal, setting up the striker to fire home Kenya’s third of the match.
Born in the United Kingdom to Kenyan parents hailing from Siaya, the youngster earned his maiden call-up on May 18, 2026, following a breakthrough season with Stoke City, where he has already made over five senior first-team appearances.
