Benni McCarthy Hailed for Reviving Football in Kenya Despite Harambee Stars’ CHAN Exit

• A former English Premier League star has hailed Benni McCarthy for revitalising Kenyan football despite Harambee Stars exit from CHAN tournament
• The former Orlando Pirates striker led Kenya to the quarter-finals of the competition in their first ever appearance in it
• The South African coach and his team also earned praises from netizens on social media after their performance in CHAN

South African tactician Benni McCarthy has been hailed by a Kenyan football legend despite the Harambee Stars' disappointment at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.

The former Manchester United coach was named the Kenyan national team coach a few months ago, and he has brought many changes to the team in the short period he has spent with them.

Kenya made it to the quarter-final of the CHAN tournament but were unable to move to the next stage after being knocked out by Madagascar on penalties on Friday, August 22, 2025.

Read also

Cardoso gives updates on Sundowns’ Bafana star as transfer talks heat up

Wanyama hails Benni McCarthy despite CHAN disappointment

Former Tottenham Hotspur star Victor Wanyama was full of praise for McCarthy and the team despite not making it to the semi-finals of the CHAN competition.

The former Celtic midfielder took to his official handle on X to send a message to the Harambee Stars players and hail coach McCarthy after what he has achieved with the team.

"Proud of our Harambee Stars, you played with heart, determination, and unity, reminding us that football is about more than just silverware; it’s about pride, passion, and perseverance. CHAN may end here, but the journey is far from over. Onward and upward," Wanyama shared on X.

"To coach Benni McCarthy, thank you for reigniting the spirit of the game and bringing a level of class and professionalism that’s been truly inspiring. We look forward to what the future holds."

McCarthy and the Harambee Stars will now turn their focus to next month’s FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Gambia and Seychelles.

Read also

Kaizer Chiefs striker earns maiden call-up ahead of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Reactions as Wanyama hails McCarthy

STEPHEN W. M stated:

"Very true Kaka Victor. Harambee start did a great job. Coach Benny has brought back the joy of the game. Kudos to team."

LUWANDAGGA MICHEAL SPORTS said:

"I loved the style of play that coach Benni introduced and the spirit of the players, mchilli is a star to watch."

Shekhe reacted:

"The boys really did us proud unlike when you were playing. Maringo ndo mnajua kwa kiwanja."

kenzkasio wrote:

"Kenya losing to Madagascar felt painful — but when Tanzania also lost to Morocco, there was this weird comfort, like shared schadenfreude. Misery loves company; somehow our loss didn’t sting as much because we weren’t alone."

davydmusambai commented:

Good performance generally, most importantly we need to build capacity for players who will make the 25 man squad again for a tournament, because its evident we have a few good players.

zawadi_bomu shared:

Read also

Steve Barker warns: "Don’t let controversy decide the MTN8 final against Pirates"

"I am extremely proud of them!! they did great!! I haven't enjoyed our local games this much since my dad left us ages ago. He loved local footie and I love it too, coz of him. Thank you for standing up and being counted!! What a debut!! 👏🏿👏🏿🇰🇪♥️"

McCarthy speaks on Kenya's WC chances

Briefly News previously reported that McCarthy made an honest admission about the hopes of leading Harambee Stars to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which would be hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico.

The former Cape Town City head coach cited the points gap and early setbacks in the qualifying series as some of the problems.

Source: Briefly News