Benni McCarthy Makes Shocking Admission After CHAN 2024 as Kenya Turns Attention to Gambia

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has admitted that Kenya’s fairytale run at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) was built on trust and freedom, despite their heartbreaking exit at the quarter-final stage.

Kenya’s debut in the continental tournament ended in dramatic fashion on Friday night as they were edged out 4-3 on penalties by Madagascar after a tense 1-1 draw at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

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The Harambee Stars had been dreaming of their first semi-final in 38 years, but the visitors held their nerve to silence a partisan home crowd.

"I think the biggest change is trust. I trust the players, give them freedom, and allow them to express their talent. I’m not a general barking orders—I give a plan, we train hard, then when they step on the pitch, it’s their stage," McCarthy said after the match.

The South African tactician, who guided Kenya to the last eight in their first-ever CHAN appearance, insisted that the performance and spirit of his players outweighed the pain of their penalty shoot-out defeat.

He noted that his team had been written off before the tournament, especially after being drawn in a group alongside heavyweights DR Congo, Angola, Morocco, and Zambia.

"That freedom has given the players belief, and you can see the difference. Kenya has a lot of talent, but talent needs time. We weren’t expected to even come this far—look at our group with DRC, Angola, Morocco, Zambia. We came through it. That alone shows how far we’ve come," he added.

Kenya had started the match brightly, with Madagascar goalkeeper Ramandimbisoa Michel tested as early as the third minute by captain Abud Omar’s free kick that was deflected on target.

Alphonce Omija then put the Harambee Stars ahead in the 48th minute, heading home from close range after Boniface Muchiri’s well-delivered set piece.

The joy, however, was short-lived. Madagascar drew level in the 69th minute when Fenohasina Gilles converted from the spot after Lewis Bandi was penalized for handling inside the box.

Despite both sides pushing hard for a winner in regular and extra time, neither could break the deadlock, forcing the tie into a nerve-wracking shoot-out.

Madagascar captain Nantenaina Elysee, Nomena Lalaina, Gilles, and Toky Rakotondraibe all converted their penalties, with Toky netting the decisive kick after Omija missed his attempt for Kenya.

Substitutes Mohammed Siraji, Daniel Sakari, and Sylvester Owino scored their spot-kicks, but Mike Kibwage also missed, sealing Kenya’s exit.

Despite the heartbreak, McCarthy remained optimistic, insisting Kenya’s football future is on an upward trajectory.

"The future of Kenyan football is bright. With time, belief, and continued growth, this team will only get stronger," he said.

Kenya’s journey to the last eight was widely celebrated, not only for defying expectations but also for showcasing a new philosophy under McCarthy.

His focus on trust, expression, and attacking football drew admiration from fans who filled Kasarani in their thousands to support the Harambee Stars.