Tusker prodigy Opondo eyes Stars starting berth as skipper Olunga hopes Harambee can rewrite history

Fast-rising goalkeeper Brian Opondo is on the brink of realizing his dream of representing Kenya in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The 23-year-old Tusker FC shot-stopper is eager to cement his place in Harambee Stars’ starting lineup for the upcoming clashes against Gabon and Gambia.

Opondo faces stiff competition from the experienced Ian Otieno, the 32-year-old custodian who plies his trade for South Africa’s Richards Bay.

However, his impressive form in the FKF Premier League has bolstered his case for a starting role. The 23-year-old is a testament to the power of resilience in the dynamic world of football, where dreams are often forged through relentless effort and unwavering determination

His call-up to the Harambee Stars marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, a moment that encapsulates the trials and triumphs that await.

As he prepares to don the national colors once more, this time on the senior stage, Opondo’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers.

Reflecting on his selection, Opondo expressed his elation, stating: “It feels great to get this call-up. This is a massive challenge and I believe it is the product of what I have been doing. Hard work pays.”

With six clean sheets in eight league matches, the young sensation has showcased resilience and shot-stopping prowess, making a compelling case for national selection.

His ascent to the national team has not come easy. Since joining Tusker from Bidco United in 2022, Opondo endured a challenging period marked by limited playing time and injury setbacks.

He remained on the sidelines for nearly a season, battling to prove his worth. However, his unwavering commitment and discipline during recovery have propelled him back into the spotlight.

Under the guidance of coach Benni McCarthy, Opondo has earned his place in Kenya’s squad for the qualifiers.

With the opportunity to don the national colors at the senior level, Opondo is determined to seize the moment and establish himself as Kenya’s first-choice goalkeeper. As the qualifiers approach, all eyes will be on the young custodian, whose hunger and resilience could shape Harambee Stars’ campaign to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Harambee Stars skipper Michael Olunga on the other hand is boastful Kenya can rewrite history when they face Gambia and Gabon in 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The Al Duhail marksman made the remarks at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as the team departed for Cote d’Ivoire to face Gambia.

Kenya resume their lofty aspirations for a maiden World Cup appearance against the Scorpions at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan due to the lack of a CAF-approved venue in the Gambia.

“The atmosphere is fantastic. Everyone is eager for their first assignment of the year,” he said. “The group is still open, but with tough games coming. First, we face the Gambia away. It will be a good encounter to showcase our talent because we know they are a team that is upcoming in Africa and they also have a good squad.”

It will be Benni McCarthy’s first game as Stars’ head coach after taking over earlier this month and Olunga hopes his teammates will adjust to the tactician’s new way of thinking, adding that McCarthy’s appointment had introduced a fresh perspective.

“We must adapt to what the new coach expects us to do. We have to adapt to the style of play the new coach wants us to…hopefully we can go and post positive results,” he observed.

“We want to go out there and do our absolute best. It is a fresh start, with a new federation and a new coach. The dynamics are quite different. It will be exciting. We are looking forward to seeing what the new Kenyan team can do.”