Gor Mahia Midfielder Reflects on Captaining Harambee Stars to Benni McCarthy's First Win

Gor Mahia midfielder Alpha Onyango was handed the role of captain during Harambee Stars’ international friendly against Chad.

In the international matches which were played at the Grand Stade de Marrakech in Morocco, Harambee Stars started their campaign with a goalless draw.

They put up a good fight in the second match, securing a 2-1 win over Chad, handing Benni McCarthy his first win since he started coaching Harambee Stars.

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Emmanuel Osoro and David Sakwa scored for Harambee Stars as Chad pulled one back through Ali Mahamat Adam.

Alpha Onyango has since extended a hand of gratitude to Benni McCarthy for offering him the chance to captain the team.

“It was a very special moment. This is a coach who just came in recently; he does not even know our streets well yet, but he trusted me to lead his team. That means a lot to me,” Alpha Onyango said as quoted by Mozzart Sport.

Alpha Onyango added that Benni McCarthy, the former Manchester United attacking coach, made them feel safe when heading into the matches.

He pointed out that there was no pressure whatsoever as he expressed excitement to have gotten a chance to play for Harambee Stars once again.

Alpha Onyango admitted that it was an easy run, but he was determined to make history with Harambee Stars once again.

“The coach told us to go out, have fun, and give our best. There was no pressure or special instructions to anyone,” he revealed.

“It was a privilege to represent my country again. I don’t take it for granted that many players never get that chance. I thank God for the opportunity.

“Representing the country is a heavy responsibility, but I was ready to help my team, and I will always be ready when called upon.”

Speaking about the African Nations Championship, Alpha Onyango pointed out that there is enough talent among the local players.

Harambee Stars are in Group A and will face off against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in their opening match at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani (MISC).

They will then take on Angola, four days later, before squaring it out with Morocco on August 10. Their final group encounter will be against Zambia on August 17.

“We have the potential to reach the finals. The talent in this country is huge, and the players in our top tier have shown their quality. I believe they are up to the task,” Alpha Onyango added.

As Harambee Stars gear up for the African Nations Championship, Alpha Onyango’s leadership and optimism offer a glimpse into the team’s renewed spirit under Benni McCarthy.