Benni McCarthy Explains What Annoys Him Ahead of 2024 CHAN Clash Against Morocco

The South African was concerned about his team’s mental readiness ahead of a crucial CHAN clash against a formidable opponent.

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy is frustrated with what he describes as "unavoidable mental lapses" that could cost his side dearly in their next 2024 CHAN group match against Morocco.

Kenya is preparing for one of the highest-profile matches in recent times and the South African coach has spoken out about his concern regarding how nerves and inexperience might scupper their ambitions.

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Harambee Stars opening games have shown flashes of potential but also worrying moments of slow starts, something McCarthy believes is rooted in the players' incapability to deal with the atmosphere of a major international tournament.

The North Africans are not only one of the group's toughest opponents, but also one of the favourites to go far in the competition. Their attacking early minutes and swift counter-attacks are well documented, and Kenya will not have any space for error from the first whistle.

"In major competitions, players might need time to adjust to the environment. It is a first major tournament for most of our players.". That tension leads to slow starts, which we can't afford to make against the likes of Morocco – one of the strongest teams in the group and competition. If we start slowly, they will punish us. I will be drumming it into the players that we can't give ourselves a mountain to climb," he said.

The Harambee Stars coach has also highlighted the tactical challenge his team faces.

Morocco's squad is founded upon a strong local league and a band of internationals and features a blend of experience and talent.

McCarthy's familiarity with their coach – a former teammate – adds another twist to the combat, with the two men familiar with each other's tendencies.

Morocco Threat and Kenya Game Plan

McCarthy argues that Kenya must be disciplined and composed throughout the match if they are to have any chance of upsetting the odds. The ability to grab scoring opportunities and alter the game plan midway will be vital if Morocco's script is to be shredded.

"Morocco have a very competitive domestic league, one of the best in Africa, and quality players both locally and internationally.". Their coach, who is my former teammate, is tactically savvy. We know they like to start well, get an early goal, and then sit back and counter. We must be disciplined and well-organized from the first minute to the last. Opportunities will come, and if we're ruthless, we can force them to change their game plan," he added.

The coach's focus is not only on strategy but also on psyching his players up. He knows all too well that this game can shape Kenya's fate in the tournament, let alone the growing popularity of football back home.

Football's Moment in Kenya

This CHAN campaign has already started to spark the imagination of Kenyan fans, with football threatening to usurp athletics for national sporting passion. McCarthy feels a positive performance will propel the sport even further into the spotlight.

This competition has already brought Kenya together and proved that football can rival athletics as our number one sport. The further we go, the more the nation will take football to its heart. Losing Marvin so early on versus Angola was a huge loss – he added a different quality to our midfield – but others can step up. We'll check fitness and fatigue today and make the best call for tomorrow's huge challenge," he said.

With the nation's hopes on their shoulders, the Harambee Stars will be looking to marry bravery with level heads. McCarthy's directive is simple: do not start nervously, stay disciplined, and be clinical when the moment arises.

Anything less against Morocco and Kenya's CHAN dream could vanish too soon.