Harambee Stars will begin their quest to qualify for a seventh Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) appearance when they take on Zimbabwe in a Group J opener at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Uganda on Friday.

However, coach Engin Firat will have to do without some of his key players, who are out through injury.

Daniel Anyembe, who plays as a right-back for Danish Superliga club Viborg FF, Bristol City defender Zak Vyner, and Collins Sichenje , who features for Serbian SuperLiga club Vojvodina, have all been ruled out of the game.

Meanwhile, lead striker and captain Michael Olunga, who plays for Al Duhail SC in the Qatar Stars League, is doubtful for the game after picking an injury while playing for his side in the Gulf nation.

Striker Masoud Juma, who turns out for Saudi Arabian Division One side Al Jabalain and winger Ayub Timbe, are long-term absentees and did not make the travelling squad to Uganda.

Kenya starting XI: Bryne Omondi (GK), Alphonce Omija, Erick Ouma, Joseph Okumu (C), Sylvester Owino, Richard Odada, Anthony Akumu, Rooney Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Duke Abuya and Eric Johana.

Zimbabwe starting XI: Washington Arubi (GK), Godknows Murwira, Munashe Garan’anga, Gerald Takwara, Jordan Zemura, Andy Rinomhota, Marshall Munetsi (C), Walter Musona, Khama Billiat, Tawanda Chirewa and Prince Dube.