Benni McCarthy: Why Angola Clash Is About More Than Just Points for Harambee Stars

The South African gaffer is confident ahead of Angola clash, praising his young squad’s spirit, adaptability, and tactical discipline.

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has aimed high as Kenya is set to face Angola in the second group stage encounter of the ongoing eighth edition of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Nairobi. 

Kenya is getting ready to battle it out with Angola at the iconic Kasarani Stadium on Thursday night and  McCarthy is oozing with confidence following the morale-boosting win over DR Congo.

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Stars defeated the two-time CHAN champions 1-0 in their opener, and that prepares the ground for what promises to be a bruising encounter with the Sable Antelopes, who lost 2-0 to Morocco in their opening match at Nyayo Stadium.

McCarthy, in spite of the loss for Angola, has warned against underestimating their next opponents.

"We will utilize all the good shape that we utilized against DR Congo. We are hoping to secure another win against Angola," McCarthy stated.

'Passion, Love, and Energy' the Motivator

The South African coach observed the atmosphere in camp is relaxed but resolute, attributing the fighting spirit and energy his players displayed in their opening game.

"We are going to play in that match and the rest of the fixtures with passion, love and with all the energy needed in order to get a victory," added McCarthy.

Central to his optimism is the shape of some top-notch players, who played a vital role in the win against DR Congo. Leading the pack of those who pleased him were youngster Manzur Okwaro, midfield enforcer Alpha Onyango, and matchwinner Austine Odhiambo, who netted the only goal of the match.

McCarthy reserved special praise for Okwaro, who was deployed in an unfamiliar defensive midfield role rather than his normal left-back spot.

"I'm pleased with Okwaro, he did well, he proved his worth though he is very young," McCarthy stated.

"Okwaro is a youngster who has got plenty of potential, he has got lots of qualities in the game. I was originally going to play him as a left back, but we changed that and gave him a new role. I'm glad he did better in the midfield. He is young, he is fit, he is brave and only 20 years old. I know now that if I have to nullify an opponent, he will come in handy because he is versatile and phenomenal."

Midfield Control and Sharp Attack the Key

McCarthy also commended the midfield calm of Alpha Onyango, who played a key role in changing play and disrupting DR Congo's rhythm.

"On Onyango, I'm happy with how he controlled the midfield. So comfortable with the ball. Crisp passes with good interlinks," he said.

"Austine Odhiambo was very creative with a lot of surprises, he can score goals at any moment, the way he used to do for us in the match," McCarthy added.

The coach believes that the growing chemistry between the trio of Okwaro, Onyango, and Odhiambo will be a key factor in the Angola match that could potentially determine Kenya's qualification into the knockout stage.

"I think Onyango and Odhiambo combining well with Okwaro against Angola will be our major plus in the battle, the trio will be able to give us good show in this tournament."

Ready for a Battle at Kasarani

With expectations rising and the local crowd set to turn up in huge numbers at Kasarani, McCarthy is focused on preparation and execution.

He strongly pointed out that they are not underestimating any side and believes his team has the appetite and determination required to progress further in the tournament.

Harambee Stars face Angola under floodlights on Thursday night.

They will be hoping to complete a second consecutive win and edge closer to the quarterfinals of the competition.