Benni McCarthy, the head coach of the Kenya national team, is optimistic that the Harambee Stars are poised to impress at the 2025 Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) set for August.
During the recent FIFA International break, the East African squad engaged in two international friendly matches against Chad, drawing the first match 0-0 before bouncing back to secure a 2-1 victory in the second.
In the opening friendly held at Stade de Marrakech in Morocco, the Harambee Stars showcased an excellent performance but were thwarted by a resolute Chad defence. Yet, in the subsequent match at the same venue, Kenya emerged as the stronger side, taking the lead within just 18 minutes thanks to a goal from debutant Emmanuel Osoro, who finished off a cross from Ben Stanley Omondi.
Kenya extended their advantage to 2-0 in the 45th minute when Osoro turned assist-provider, setting up David Sakwa, who found the back of the net. Although Chad reduced the deficit with a goal from Ali Mahamat Adam in the 60th minute, it was not enough to stop Kenya from clinching their first victory under McCarthy’s management.
Since McCarthy’s appointment, he has managed the team in two previous matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. In their fifth matchday in Group F, Kenya performed admirably to earn a 3-3 draw against Gambia, though they suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Gabon.
McCarthy Pleased with Kenya’s Performance in Friendly Matches
The former Bafana Bafana striker expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance during both friendlies against Chad, highlighting the significant contributions of new players, whom he included in the squad.
“In the first match, we played exceptionally well and deserved to win, though the scoreboard didn’t reflect that. You could see it in the players’ faces; they knew we had played well but couldn’t secure the victory,” he remarked.
“In the second match, I told the players that they needed to push on. If they continue to create chances as they did, scoring goals will come easily.”
“The new players stepped up admirably, creating numerous opportunities. It was gratifying to see the team beginning to play in the style I envision, moving the ball effectively and understanding one another. Lots of positives emerged from this win, and I’m thrilled for the team.”
McCarthy continued, “I am absolutely delighted because this victory was well-deserved, and I believe we can build upon our training in Morocco.”
“In the first game, what we lacked was clinical finishing, and our training before the second match focused on that—ensuring players were comfortable on the ball and knowing what to do once they crossed the halfway line, attacking swiftly and moving the ball faster to prevent the opposition from regrouping.”
McCarthy further elaborated on the team’s strategy by detailing both goals, particularly praising Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo’s contribution leading to the second goal.
“The first goal came from Ben Stanley Omondi making a great run down the wing and delivering a pinpoint cross. Emmanuel (Osoro) was perfectly positioned at the near post—exactly what we had discussed before the game—and he finished it beautifully,” McCarthy noted.
“For the second goal, Austin (Odhiambo), playing in the number 10 role, rightly moved higher up the pitch instead of dropping deep to collect the ball. Although he is proficient on the ball, he is far more dangerous when positioned forward. He then played a lovely pass to Osoro, who delivered another brilliant assist across the pitch for Sakwa to finish,” McCarthy elaborated.
McCarthy concluded, “I am thrilled for the young players, especially those who had the opportunity to feature in this international context. However, we cannot afford to become complacent; there is a solid foundation in place, and we just need to keep working and improving.”
Kenya Poised for CHAN Success
When asked about the inclusion of international players Brian Mandela, Adam Wilson, and William Lenkupae in the friendlies, McCarthy explained: “Ninety percent of our team was comprised of local players; only Mandela, Lenkupae, and Adam were the international representatives, and they’re players who haven’t had much game time this season.”
“I aimed to provide them with a chance to play, to gain some minutes, and integrate within the squad. Their presence significantly aided the local players, and it proved effective, as they were instrumental in our approach.”
“Now, as we prepare for CHAN, I hope the players have recognized the standards I expect of them. They’ve seen that if we attain the level of football we are capable of, positive results will follow, and there is much to anticipate as the tournament approaches. I’m confident the team will be ready and eager to perform well,” he added.
“Our primary objective is to bring joy to the nation by achieving more victories.”
The upcoming CHAN will mark the eighth edition of the biennial tournament governed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), featuring national teams made up of players currently playing in their domestic leagues.
The tournament is slated to take place in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from August onward, making it the first edition hosted by three nations. The three countries have been selected as co-hosts for the 2024 edition, serving as a precursor for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Kenya has been placed in Group A alongside: Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, and Zambia. Group B includes Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic. Group C consists of Uganda, Niger, Guinea, Algeria, and South Africa, while Group D comprises Senegal, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan, and Nigeria.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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