The South African gaffer has laid out three crucial demands for the Harambee Stars as they gear up for a decisive CHAN 2024 showdown against Angola in a high-stakes encounter.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has wasted no time shifting focus to Kenya's next key test against Angola following their thrilling 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at Kasarani.
Although the triumph had restored the team's confidence and re-ignited national faith, McCarthy insists that the real test remains ahead of them.
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With Kenya having been placed in one of the tournament's most powerful groups, he has also set out three non-negotiable demands from his players ahead of Thursday's game: Focus, Momentum, and Execution.
3. Focus: Blocking Out the Noise
McCarthy also understands that an early victory can all too easily create distraction and complacency if not handled well. He wants his team to remain sharp mentally and block out the external noise because the hard challenges are ahead.
"The hardest part is over now," McCarthy replied in his post-match interview, where there was a sense of relief and confidence in the team.
"With the first game and the victory to our credit, the team can now relax and properly prepare for our next encounter."
Intensity is of the essence as Kenya now seeks to take on an Angolan side renowned for its tactical uncertainty and transition attacks. McCarthy is preparing his side to enter the Angola game with the same intensity and apprehension, ensuring they bear in mind that one win does not guarantee qualification.
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2. Momentum: Ride the Wave
The euphoria of emotion and confidence off the back of the DRC win is something that McCarthy believes must be carried over to the next match. With the nerves settled, he believes the team will play more freely and aggressively.
"This country requires a team capable of going out there and fighting for it," McCarthy said.
"I am sure the boys will be prepared to deliver the best performance Kenyans deserve."
The Harambee Stars were impressive with their fighting spirit and tactical organization in their opener, and the head coach would want to see the same again. The technical team are already analyzing Angola's last few matches and redoing plans to attack any exposed weak points — with the possibility of employing the working back five once more.
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1. Execution: Deliver Under Pressure
McCarthy's final call is execution — the ability to operate tactically, physically, and mentally under pressure in a tournament. Success at this level is determined by thin margins, and against a well-disciplined Angolan side, mistakes could be costly.
Kenya must continue to be disciplined, work as one and take advantage of opportunities as they come. The team selection against DRC was mature, and McCarthy is confident that they can repeat that when they stick to the plan and stay calm.
The Angola match is becoming a turning point. Another good performance will put Kenya at the doorstep of qualification. For this to happen, McCarthy's three conditions — Focus, Momentum, and Execution — must be fully achieved.
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The pressure is on, and Harambee Stars are playing with the country's faith behind them. Thursday's match can be the turning point of their campaign — if they accept the challenge.