Benni McCarthy: South African Star Shares Harambee Stars Coach’s Role in His Journey to Bafana Bafana Captaincy

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy’s influence on footballers in his country South Africa has been lauded by one of the nation’s bright stars.

McCarthy is a legendary figure in South Africa where he is the country’s all-time top scorer and while he retired long ago and works beyond the borders, he keeps inspiring many footballers.

Defender Fawaaz Basdien has disclosed how he has learned a lot from McCarthy not just on playing but leadership, having been named Bafana Bafana captain for South Africa’s friendly match against Tanzania, a match that ended 0-0 on Friday night.

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The Stellenbosch FC left-back was wearing the armband in just his fifth appearance for the national team but says he drew inspiration from the likes of McCarthy which made the job much easier.

“I think growing up watching the national team, I mainly watched guys like Benni McCarthy, and I also played with Nasief Morris,” Basadien said as quoted by South African outlet iDiski Times.

“So, I think those guys, I’ve been watching in the national team. Obviously Nasief Morris was a big legend and Benni McCarthy as well. So, for me, I think it was always learning from them and trying to see what they do.

“And obviously I got the privilege to play with Nasief so I also learned a lot from him as well and obviously he has good qualities and leadership skills.

“So, for me I think that was just to learn and take from them that when one day if I am a captain of the national team I’ll just try and implement it and obviously just help those who’re coming through.”

McCarthy is a previous captain of Bafana Bafana and seems to have left a lasting mark that others are looking to follow as they lead the national team.