By Peter Ochieng
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League side, Sofapaka FC right-back Baron Ochieng has landed his first-ever call-up to the senior national team, Harambee Stars.
The youngster had previously made appearances in the junior ranks.
In December 2023, he was part of the Kenya Under 18 squad that represented the country at the 2023 CECAFA Junior Championships held in Kisumu and Kakamega counties.
Kenya lost to Uganda in the final played at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, in Mamboleo, Kisumu. Furthermore, Baron was part of the Kenya Under 20 team in March of this year, representing the country at the four nations tournament in Malawi.
According to the FKF website, he is expected to join the squad on Tuesday, May 4, 2024, alongside Daniel Anyembe and Collins Sichenje.
On Monday, Clifton Miheso, another late addition to the squad, participated in the team’s evening session. Miheso replaced Eric Johanna, who was dropped from the team.
Kenya will play two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier matches against Burundi on June 7, and African champions, Ivory Coast, on June 11, 2024. Both matches will be at the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi.
Coach Engin Firat said that although the team would have preferred to play in Nairobi, they have no otherwise but play in Lilongwe due to the prevailing circumstances.
Kenyan facilities like Nyayo and Moi, Kasarani have been closed for renovation. Coach Firat expressed confidence that the team would give a good account of itself.
Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Byrne Omondi, Patrick Matasi
Defenders: Johnstone Omurwa, Collins Sichenje, Zak Vyner, Alphonce Omija, Abud Omar, Daniel Anyembe, Tobias Knost, Baron Ochieng
Midfielders: John Ochieng, Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Chrispine Erambo, Timothy Ouma, Duke Abuya, Kenneth Muguna, Austin Odhiambo, Ronney Onyango, Clifton Miheso
Forwards: John Avire, Benson Omalla, Michael Olunga