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.
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Harambee Stars defender Sylvester Owino banking on Mapinduzi and CHAN tournaments to help launch professional career
Although his contract at Gor Mahia is approaching the final months, Owino believes good performances for Harambee Stars at both the Mapinduzi and 2024 CHAN tournaments will help him secure his club future.
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.
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Harambee Stars goalkeeper Byrne Odhiambo hails Arnold Origi's impact as Francis Kimanzi's charges gear up for Mapinduzi Cup
Harambee Stars keeper Byrne Odhiambo has hailed the impact of Arnold Origi as new goalkeeping coach as Francis Kimanzi's charges gear up for the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup.
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.