On Wednesday afternoon, interim Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi announced his provisional squad for the Mapinduzi Cup, which will take place in Zanzibar from January 3rd. This squad is expected to form the core of Kenya’s CHAN 2024 team, with the tournament scheduled to kick off on February 1, 2025, across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.##NAJAVA_MECA_8593729##Kimanzi’s selection includes a mix of seasoned players, promising newcomers, and young talents. However, several players in outstanding form were surprisingly left out. Mozzart Sport takes a closer look at some of these players who, based on their current performances, arguably deserved a spot on the team.Ken Owino (AFC Leopards)Owino has been a key figure in AFC Leopards’ defense since joining from Posta Rangers earlier this year. Ingwe has conceded just 12 goals in the league, one of the fewest in the competition, with Owino playing a vital role in maintaining this solidity. His experience and quality would have justified a call-up to Kimanzi’s squad.Victor Wanyama, MacDonald Mariga’s touching gesture to ailing volleyball queen Janet WanjaDaniel Mukuok Odhiambo (Mathare United)The former Mombasa Elite player has been a standout for Mathare United since their return to the top flight. Despite the team conceding 18 goals in 15 games, Odhiambo’s talent has been evident, marking him as a future star. He could have been rewarded with a place in the squad headed to Zanzibar.Jack Ong’anya (Sofapaka FC)Ong’anya, the former Green Commandos captain, has made an impressive leap into the FKF Premier League at Sofapaka, partnering with veteran Humphrey Mieno in midfield. His composed performances have made him an important player under coach Robert Matano, and his good form could have earned him a national team call-up.CHAN Organizing Committee chairman provides update on Kenya’s preparednessEmmanuel Osoro (FC Talanta)Osoro has scored five goals from the wing and has been one of the most exciting attackers in the league this season. His speed and dribbling have caused problems for defenders, and his performances have already attracted interest from other clubs. Given his recent form, Osoro could feel hard done by his omission from the Mapinduzi Cup squad.Bajaber Mohamed (Nairobi City Stars)Mohamed has been a revelation in the league, scoring crucial goals for City Stars. His versatility and current run of form make him one of the most sought-after players in the league. Many would argue that his exclusion from the national team squad in favor of less deserving players is unfair.Lewis Bandi (AFC Leopards)Since returning from injury late last season, Bandi has been a consistent performer at right-back for AFC Leopards. His solid displays on both flanks might have earned him a spot in Kimanzi’s squad, particularly given his ability to play in multiple positions.Kenyan midfielder’s value raises by Ksh376 million in 2024Joseph Kuloba (Sofapaka FC)Kuloba, formerly of Bungoma Stars, has adapted well to top-tier football, scoring two goals and showcasing his crossing and set-piece abilities. His industrious performances for Sofapaka have been impressive, and he may have merited a place in the national team.Matthias Isogol (Mara Sugar FC)In his debut season in the top tier, Isogol has quickly established himself as one of the league’s best midfielders. He was part of the squad for the first leg of the CHAN qualifiers against South Sudan but was dropped for the return leg. His passing, industry, and control in midfield arguably made him deserving of a place in the provisional team.Francis Kimanzi returns as Harambee Stars name provisional squad for Mapinduzi Cup
