Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy thanks Kenyans for ‘untouchable’ support at CHAN

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy meets President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on August 28, 2025. (Photo: Courtesy)

By Erick Kariuki
Thursday, August 28, 2025

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by President William Ruto at State House after the team’s return, McCarthy said the fans made the players feel “untouchable” every time they stepped onto the pitch.

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has paid a heartfelt tribute to Kenyans for the overwhelming support shown to the national team during their debut campaign at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by President William Ruto at State House after the team’s return, McCarthy said the fans made the players feel “untouchable” every time they stepped onto the pitch.

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“From me and the team, from the bottom of my heart, I don't think we would have been able to achieve and make those small steps in the right direction if we didn't have you guys behind us to support us and give us the tools to succeed. So, thank you very much for your faith and your trust in us. And the most important people to thank is the nation of Kenya because football is a team sport, but you made us feel untouchable just with your support, filling the stadiums and pushing the team whenever,” said McCarthy.

The South African tactician added that Harambee Stars’ progress in their maiden CHAN appearance was only possible because of the fans, stressing that their journey had just begun.

“We could not have achieved anything, talent and everything that we had, but we could only do it with the fans and everybody that was behind the team. So thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope this is the beginning of something really special from the players and from the fans. Hopefully, we can continue on the good path and do well to make the country proud.”

Harambee Stars exited the tournament in the quarterfinals after a tense 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar, despite going unbeaten in the group stages. Kenya drew once and secured two wins, including two matches played with 10 men, where they still held their ground.

With their CHAN campaign over, the team now shifts focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they are set to face The Gambia and Seychelles in Nairobi.