Gor Mahia fans were left stunned when several standout players were unexpectedly excluded from Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars squad for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Gabon.
Initially, many players from Gor Mahia were among the frontrunners in McCarthy’s provisional squad, but their omission from the final selection raised eyebrows.
One of the most shocking exclusions was Austin Odhiambo, the team’s prolific top scorer this season with an impressive tally of eight goals. Odhiambo has been the beating heart of the Gor Mahia lineup, consistently delivering goals and creativity in the attacking third. His absence from the national team feels particularly unexpected, given his sustained brilliance in the league.
Another surprising omission is Alpha Onyango, who has recently found his scoring touch, finding the net three times in just five matches. His growing presence and influence in midfield made him a compelling candidate for a call-up, yet McCarthy opted to overlook him, much to the dismay of fans.
Defensively, the rock-solid center-back duo of Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija, along with new signing Lawrence Juma, also found themselves on the outside looking in. However, this absence could ultimately serve Gor Mahia well, as it allows these key defenders to remain fresh and energized for the intense final stretch of the league season.
Only two players from Gor Mahia, Ronney Onyango and Ben Stanley, made it into the Harambee Stars squad; however, neither featured in Gor Mahia’s recent league clash against Bandari FC. In particular, Ronney Onyango has been the subject of transfer speculation, which could explain his reduced participation on the pitch.
While Gor Mahia initially boasted the highest representation in McCarthy’s provisional squad, circumstances led many players to decline their call-ups due to the pressing demand of a crucial league fixture against Bandari FC at Dandora Stadium. In that match, the defending champions proved their mettle with a commanding 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Christopher Ochieng and Alpha Onyango, showcasing their depth and resilience.
As it stands, Gor Mahia occupies third place in the FKF Premier League table with 42 points, trailing the leaders, Kenya Police, who have 45 points, and second-placed Tusker, sitting at 44 points. With the title race entering a pivotal phase, the decision to retain key players for domestic action could very well spell the difference in their quest for another championship.
Could these surprising omissions ultimately become a strategic triumph for Gor Mahia? If their revitalized squad takes advantage of the additional rest and maintains their momentum, the snub from Harambee Stars may transform into an unexpected blessing rather than a setback.