AFC Leopards' Kelly Madada in, Shabana's Brian Michira omitted as Francis Kimanzi names 26-man Harambee Stars squad for Mapinduzi Cup escapade

Kelly Madada (R) challenges Charles Momanyi (L) during a training session at the MPESA Foundation Academy. The AFC Leopards man has been included in the final Harambee Stars squad for the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup. Photo || FKF

AFC Leopards' Kelly Madada in, Shabana's Brian Michira omitted as Francis Kimanzi names 26-man Harambee Stars squad for Mapinduzi Cup escapade

Mark Kinyanjui 09:40 - 01.01.2025

Madada, who was part of Salim Babu's Rising Stars side that sealed a place at the U-20 AFCON last October, has been included in the squad.

Harambee Stars interim head coach Francis Kimanzi has finalized his 26-member squad for the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup, set to take place in Zanzibar from January 3 to January 13.

 The team, featuring a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents from the FKF Premier League, will face Burundi on January 6 and the hosts, Zanzibar, on January 7.

AFC Leopards’ midfield sensation Kelly Madada has been included in the squad, capping a meteoric rise after just three consecutive league starts. His impressive performances have showcased his readiness for the national stage. He was also part of the Rising Stars squad that sealed qualification to the U-20 AFCON last October under Salim Babu.

Joining Madada is Tusker FC's prolific striker Ryan Ogam, the FKF Premier League’s current top scorer with 13 goals in his debut season. Ogam’s remarkable finishing ability has solidified his reputation as the league's most lethal forward.His creator in chief at club level Shapan Oyugi has however, been left out of the side.

KCB’s Francis Kahiro, despite scoring nine goals this season and playing a key role in his club's rise to the top of the league standings, did not make the final cut.

 However, his teammates Hanif Wesonga and captain Michael Mutinda have been included, ensuring KCB still has representation in the squad.

National Super League representative Isaac Omweri, who had been part of the provisional squad, also missed out on the final selection.

Darius Msagha is the Shabana man that has made the cut, with on-form winger Brian Michira notably left out.

The Mapinduzi Cup will serve as crucial preparation for the Harambee Stars as they gear up for the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN), scheduled for February.

Travelling squad

Goalkeepers: Byrne Odhiambo, Faruk Shikalo, Sebastian Wekesa

Defenders: Sylvester Owino, Hanif Wesonga, Alphonce Omija, Brian Okoth, Abud Omar, Siraj Mohammed, Ronney Onyango, Daniel Sakari

Midfielders: Michael Mutinda, Chrispine Erambo, Brian Musa, Kelly Madada, Austine Odhiambo, Kenneth Muguna, Ben Stanley Omondi, Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri,Marvine Nabwire, Darius Msagah, James Kinyanjui,

Forwards: Ryan Ogam, Victor Omune, Moses Shumah

With a mix of experience and youthful energy, Kimanzi’s squad is poised to make a strong impact in Zanzibar as they aim to lift the Mapinduzi Cup and build momentum for the upcoming CHAN tournament.

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