Harambee Stars Midfielder Explains Why Fans Share Blame for 8-0 Senegal Humiliation

Harambee Stars midfielder Kenneth Muguna has offered a surprising perspective on Kenya’s humiliating 8-0 defeat to Senegal, stating that fans must also shoulder part of the blame for the team’s performance.

The heavy loss came during their second international friendly on Tuesday, November 18, where a ruthless Senegal side dominated from start to finish.

Sadio Mane led the charge with a hat-trick, Nicolas Jackson added a brace, and Malick Diouf, Ibrahima Mbaye, and Cherif Ndiaye rounded up the scores against Harambee Stars.

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In the aftermath of the defeat, criticism has poured in relentlessly, with supporters, former coaches and players directing much of their anger toward head coach Benni McCarthy and his technical bench. Many questioned the squad selection, tactical decisions, and overall preparedness of the team.

However, Kenneth Muguna has stepped forward with a different perspective, emphasising that fans' criticisms have also contributed to the pressure and instability around the team.

The Township Rollers midfielder suggested that had Benni McCarthy retained the experienced players, the defeat might not have been as severe.

The former Kenya Police FC midfielder noted that after Harambee Stars’ 3-1 loss to Gambia, many fans questioned McCarthy’s decision to field the experienced players.

Kenneth Muguna hinted that the omission of Michael Olunga and other senior players for the friendlies against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal may have been intended to show fans just how vital they are to the squad.

“I will never be afraid to break the protocol or to speak. After our match against Gambia, fans questioned Coach Benni's decision of including experienced players. Now you see why those players are important in the National team setup. Hate or love me, I'll always be real,” he shared in a post on his X (Twitter) handle.

Kenneth Muguna stated that he is unconcerned about who plays for the national team, adding that even if he never got another opportunity to represent Kenya, it would not be a problem.

The midfield maestro explained that everyone is in support of Harambee Stars and ultimately wants the best for the country.

“Who cares Nani anacheza bro (Who cares about who plays, bro. Even if I don't play again for Kenya, it's not a problem. We are all fans of the National team, and we want what's best for the country, that's it,” he added.

Meanwhile, Harambee Stars lost 1-0 to Equatorial Guinea in their first friendly match played at the Emirhan Sports Centre in Turkey last Friday, November 14.