After missing the last three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Kenya have secured their place at the 2027 showcase as co-hosts.
The East African nation now faces a serious fight in its bid to become relevant on the continent before the tournament begins.
Kenya’s head coach, Benni McCarthy, will be well aware that the upcoming FIFA Series in Kigali is the first step in building momentum towards the next AFCON.
The FIFA Series Tournament is an Opportunity for Growth
McCarthy has named a 23-man squad for the FIFA Series, balancing experience with new faces as he continues to find the best combinations and tactical set-up for his team.
The 48-year-old former Manchester United assistant coach must forge a formidable side capable of delivering at the next African showpiece.
The FIFA Series allows Kenya to undergo competitive international preparation, the type of exposure they have not enjoyed in recent years.
The mini-tournament pits Kenya against Estonia, Grenada and Rwanda. Kenya won’t be the favourites to emerge victorious, but they will be eager to upset the odds.
The sportsbooks featured on Kenyan betting comparison platform Bettingtop10.ke will be bombarded with wagers from passionate fans backing the Harambee Stars.
Kenya start their campaign against Estonia at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on March 23. They will either play in the final or a third-place match on March 30.
The opportunity to compete at a high level in unfamiliar territory will help their AFCON 2027 preparations.
Call-Up News: Building Steam Towards AFCON 2027
The FIFA Series is an opportunity for McCarthy to build the foundations of a solid squad that can represent Kenya for years to come.
McCarthy will rely on notable players such as veteran Michael Olunga. The 64-cap international has bagged 32 goals for the national team.
The 31-year-old Al-Arabi striker is enjoying a decent season in Qatar and will be key to Kenya’s chances of winning this tournament.
McCarthy has introduced some younger stars and fringe international to his squad. They can become important parts of Kenya’s project if they prove they belong.
Defender Zak Vyner has finally received a maiden call-up after complications messed up other windows. The Wrexham ace must seize the opportunity to rubber-stamp his place in the national set-up.
There is a surprise call-up for teenage midfielder Zech Obiero, who has impressed at the youth level.
McCarthy is willing to give younger players the chance to prove their mettle with the seniors, something Kenya will need to build depth across the squad.
Versatile attacker Clarke Oduor brings valuable experience to the frontline. He has been away from the national team for some time, but McCarthy will use him to experiment.
McCarthy has struggled to make any memorable impact since taking the reins in 2025. He has recorded six wins, three draws and six defeats in 15 games.
Kenya failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and crashed out in the quarter-finals of the African Nations Championship.
They are on a three-game losing streak, and lost 8-0 to Senegal in their last outing. McCarthy needs to capitalise on this tournament to steer the ship in the right direction.
He has said that this FIFA Series is another opportunity to gauge and evaluate his squad, but he will also be under the microscope. He must reset the narrative around his tenure or risk losing his job.
Positive performances will restore confidence among supporters and players ahead of AFCON 2027.
Kenya’s FIFA Series Fixtures
- Kenya vs Estonia (March 27 | 6.00 pm | Amahoro Stadium)
- Winner M1 vs Winner M2 (March 30 | 9.00 pm | Amahoro Stadium)
- Loser M1 vs Loser M2 (March 30 | 6.00 pm | Amahoro Stadium)
Kenya’s Full 23-Man Squad
Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi (Bandari), Brian Bwire (Polokwene City), Ian Otieno (Richards Bay).
Defenders: Frank Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Abud Omar (Kenya Police), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Zak Vyner (Wrexham), Rooney Onyango (Sogndal), Daniel Sakari (Kenya Police).
Midfielders: Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Richard Odada (FC Uta Arad), Chris Erambo (Tusker FC), Manzur Suleiman (Stade De Reims).
Attackers: Austine Odhiambo (Nejmeh), William Lenkupae (Unattached), Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad), Mohammed Bajaber (Simba FC), Zech Obiero (Tranmere Rovers), Clarke Oduor (Grimsby Town), Michael Olunga (Al Arabi), Ryan Ogam (Wolfsberger), Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinajoki).