Benni McCarthy Makes History as Kenya Qualifies for CHAN Quarter-Finals

• Kenya topped Group A at CHAN after edging Zambia 1-0, finishing the group stage unbeaten
• Ryan Ogam’s late goal secured the Harambee Stars’ victory and strengthened their knockout hopes
• Kenya prepared to face Madagascar in the quarter-finals, aiming for their first-ever CHAN final

Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars wrapped up their African Nations Championship (CHAN) group stage campaign with a statement of intent, edging Zambia 1-0 in Nairobi to secure top spot in Group A.

Ryan Ogam struck the decisive goal 15 minutes from time at Moi International Sports Centre, ensuring Kenya remained unbeaten in the group phase with three wins and a draw.

The result condemned Chipolopolo to a fourth consecutive defeat, while cementing Kenya’s growing reputation as one of the tournament’s most formidable sides.

A rising force under McCarthy

Since taking the reins after his spell as Manchester United first-team coach, McCarthy has injected belief and discipline into the Harambee Stars. Their unbeaten run in the group stage not only underlines Kenya’s consistency but also fuels optimism that the co-hosts could go all the way. Backed by fervent home support in Nairobi, Kenya are increasingly viewed as serious contenders to claim their first-ever CHAN crown, a prospect that has intensified expectations on McCarthy and his men.

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As co-hosts, Kenya are under pressure to deliver a deep run, with a place in the final seen as the minimum target.

For McCarthy, a Bafana Bafana legend with European coaching credentials, success at CHAN would also reinforce his growing reputation as one of Africa’s most promising managers.

Quarter-Final Test: Madagascar Awaits

The Harambee Stars now turn their focus to Friday’s quarter-final clash against Madagascar, led by former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Arohasina “Dax” Andrianarimanana.

The showdown in Nairobi promises to be a fiery contest, with Kenya aiming to continue their unbeaten run and edge closer to a historic final appearance.

A sport journalist believes McCarthy is doing a great job since being named the Harambee Stars head coach and could lead them to victory in the competition.

Kenyan sports journalist Moses Mbogo in an interview with Briefly News shared his thoughts on McCarthy leading Harambee Stars to victory in the CHAN competition.

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He also claimed he is satisfied with the former Orlando Pirates star’s work so far with the country’s national team even after struggling in the World Cup qualifiers.

"There are a lot of strong teams in the tournament and absolutely every team didn’t come to play as they all have the mind of winning the competition,” he added.

“Even at that, there are teams that are better placed and also with better players and quality squad.

Benni McCarthy narrates how a PSL club betrayed him

Briefly News also reported that McCarthy opened up on the hidden story of how someone at a Premier Soccer League side betrayed him.

The former West Ham star worked as a head coach for two different clubs in the South African league before working as an assistant to Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.

Source: Briefly News