Why Harambee Stars-bound Gor Mahia players will delay honoring Benni McCarthy's call up

Gor Mahia players celebrate a goal during Sunday's March 9 FKF cup round of 32 clash against Githurai Allstars.

Why Harambee Stars-bound Gor Mahia players will delay honoring Benni McCarthy's call up

Stephen Awino 16:15 - 13.03.2025

Gor Mahia is the most represented FKF Premier League club in Benni McCarthy's recent Harambee Stars provisional squad for world cup qualifiers.

Gor Mahia’s dominance in the FKF Premier League is reflected in the national team, with the club supplying the most players in Benni McCarthy’s latest Harambee Stars provisional squad.

However, the K’Ogalo stars will delay joining the national team camp.

McCarthy, who is preparing for his first assignment as Harambee Stars head coach, has named seven Gor Mahia players in the provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

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Kenya is ramping up preparations as they will face Gambia in Ivory Coast on March 20 before hosting Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium on March 23.

The K’Ogalo contingent includes playmaker Austin Odhiambo, who has been in sensational form this season with eight goals and several assists as well as Right-back Ronney Onyango, a mainstay in the national side.

In defense, the formidable centre-back pairing of Sylvester Owino and Alphonse Omija has earned call-ups after establishing themselves as Gor Mahia’s most reliable duo.

The midfield is well represented, with Alpha Onyango making a return, Lawrence Juma adding experience, and Ben Stanley Omondi, a recent signing from Kakamega Homeboyz, getting his chance in the national setup.

Despite the national team call-ups, Gor Mahia has officially requested the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to allow their players to feature in their league match against Bandari on Saturday at Dandora Stadium before reporting to camp.

The defending FKF Premier League champions currently sit third with 39 points, just three behind leaders Kenya Police (42 points) and two behind second-placed Tusker (41 points).

A win against Bandari is crucial for Sinisa Mihic’s side as they push for another league title.

Mihic, who is yet to taste defeat as Gor Mahia boss, has transformed the team’s form at a critical time.

Their most recent match saw them thrash Githurai Allstars 5-0 in the FKF Cup. In league action, they defeated Kariobangi Sharks 3-1 in their last outing, further closing the gap on the top two.

With Gor Mahia in fine form and chasing the title, delaying the players' departure for national duty ensures they help their club in a crucial fixture before joining Harambee Stars.