Benni McCarthy's Harambee Stars have three key upcoming opportunities to secure his first win as head coach.
Benni McCarthy's wait for a maiden win as Harambee Stars head coach continues after Kenya was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Chad in an international friendly on Saturday in Marrakech, Morocco.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, McCarthy's men lacked the clinical edge to break down a resolute Chadian side.
With pressure slowly mounting on McCarthy to deliver results, there remain three promising fixtures on the horizon where the South African tactician could finally secure his first win at the helm of Kenya’s national team.
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21:51 - 07.06.2025
Harambee Stars Player Ratings vs Chad: Who Impressed And Dissapointed For Benni McCarthy's Men in the Stalemate?
Abud Omar and William Lenkupae shone brightest in a defensively solid but goalless outing for Harambee Stars against Chad.
3. Friendly Rematch vs Chad – June 10
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Kenya’s immediate opportunity comes in the form of a second friendly against the same Chad side on June 10.
This rematch offers McCarthy the perfect chance to quickly address the shortcomings of the first encounter.
The team created chances but lacked composure in front of goal. A tactical tweak or a more clinical forward line could be the difference.
McCarthy will also have had more time to work with the squad, potentially improving cohesion and execution.
Given Chad’s similar FIFA ranking and the neutral venue, this is arguably the most winnable match in the near term.
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21:30 - 07.06.2025
Benni McCarthy Made to Wait for First Harambee Stars Win as Wasteful Kenya Fail to Breach Chad
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy watched his side waste a number of opportunities to draw against Chad in their friendly match in Marrakech, Morocco on Saturday.
2. 2026 World Cup Qualifier vs Gambia – September 1
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Though Kenya’s World Cup qualification hopes are all but extinguished, currently trailing group leaders Ivory Coast by 10 points, the return leg against Gambia provides another real shot at victory.
The first leg ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, with Mohammed Bajaber, Michael Olunga, and William Lenkupae getting on the scoresheet.
Gambia showed defensive frailties Kenya could exploit, and with pride on the line, McCarthy’s men will be motivated to give a good account on home soil.
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14:39 - 07.06.2025
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Kenya's preparations for co-hosting AFCON 2027 face a major setback after the government excluded the critical hosting rights fee from the 2025/26 budget, amid a funding cut to the sports department.
1. CHAN 2024 – August (Co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda And Tanzania)
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Another key opportunity for McCarthy comes at the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to take place in August and co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The tournament which features players active in their home domestic leagues, presents a different challenge, but also a chance for the Stars to shine on home soil.
With home support, familiar conditions, and a chance to rally national pride, Kenya will be eager to make a strong impression in the continental tournament.
A positive result in their opening CHAN fixture could be exactly what McCarthy needs to finally secure his first win and build momentum.
McCarthy’s tenure with Harambee Stars may have begun with a stumble, but these upcoming fixtures offer a path toward stability and confidence