Naema Celestine 
FLORENCE SIMIYU
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has announced a provisional squad of 25 players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast.
Firat has largely kept the squad that won the four-nation tournament in Malawi in March, while also introducing some new players.
Among the newcomers is Brian Okoth, a standout defender from Kenya Police, and Austine Odhiambo from Gor Mahia, who leads the FKF Premier League in assists this season.
Additionally, the squad includes Tobias Knost from SV Verl in Germany and Bruce Kamau from Perth Glory in Australia.
Adam Wilson of Bradford City in England has also received his first national team call-up.
Duke Abuya and Elvis Rupia have been recalled after missing the recent tournament in Malawi.
The team will begin preparations for the qualifiers today ,Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Nairobi.
Kenya will play against Burundi on June 7, 2024, and then face the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions, Ivory Coast, on June 11, 2024.
Before these crucial matches, the team is tentatively scheduled to depart for Malawi on June 2, 2024.
