Burundi vs Kenya: Lineups, Kickoff Time & What’s at Stake in Group F Clash

On Thursday, October 9, 2025, Kenya’s Harambee Stars will face Burundi in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium (Stade Intwari) in Bujumbura.

Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 PM East Africa Time (EAT).

Although both teams are already eliminated from World Cup contention, the match still carries value—this is about finishing strong, evaluating talent, and showing resolve.

Kenya Squad for the Burundi & Ivory Coast Fixtures

Here is the final squad that Coach McCarthy named for the last two qualifiers (Burundi on October 9 and Ivory Coast on October 14).

Vincent Harper, an England-based defender, was a new call-up.

Lawrence Okoth stepped up from the U20s after impressing at the U20 AFCON in Egypt.

The squad is a mix of experience and promising youth.

Match Preview & Tactical Notes

What’s at Stake

With their World Cup dreams already extinguished, Kenya and Burundi approach this as a dead rubber—but neither side will want to end on a whimper.

Pride, rankings, momentum, and insight into squad options all matter.

Injuries & Fitness Headaches

Kenya arrive with concerns over three key players.

Captain Michael Olunga, Alpha Onyango, and Rooney Onyango are all reported to be nursing knocks from club duty and will undergo late fitness tests.

McCarthy has indicated no major injuries but admitted the final decision depends on form and how they feel in training.

Expected Formation & Lineup

Kenya is likely to stick with a 4-2-3-1 system.

If fitness issues prevent inclusion of Olunga or the Onyangos, replacements from the squad above may fill in.

Burundi Side & Threats

Burundi head into this game with 10 points from 8 matches in Group F.

Key threats include Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana, Marco Weymans, and Pacifique Niyongabire on the flanks.

Tactically, Burundi may press early, hoping to exploit Kenya’s occasional sluggish starts, while Kenya will look to absorb pressure and hit on transitions, using Olunga’s hold-up ability and runners from behind.

Set-pieces could play a big role, as both sides have had defensive frailties in those situations.

Head-to-Head & Recent Form

Their last clash in June 2024 ended in a 1–1 draw (Olunga scored for Kenya; Bimenyimana equalized).

Historically, in eight meetings, each side has won twice, with four draws.

In the qualifiers so far, Kenya has shown attacking potential (with 17 goals in the group), but their defense has been inconsistent.

Broadcast & Viewing Info

Final Word

While this fixture won’t decide World Cup fortunes, it offers Kenya a meaningful opportunity to finish on a high note.

For Coach McCarthy, it’s a chance to experiment, test depth, and send a message about standards.

For the players, especially younger ones, it’s a stage to stake their claim.

And for Kenyan fans, it’s a moment to rally behind a team still chasing pride and progress.