Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy eyes balance ahead of World Cup qualifiers
McCarthy said Kenya is closely monitoring emerging talents abroad and, while admitting World Cup qualification is slim with only four games left, stressed the need to fight for every remaining point.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy says Kenya must find the right balance between home-based and foreign-based players as the team prepares for its upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Reflecting on the African Nations Championship (CHAN), where Kenya was eliminated in the quarterfinals after losing to Madagascar, McCarthy admitted the result was disappointing.
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“It was there for the taking,” he said, adding that the performance still showed Kenya’s potential to compete at higher levels.
Injuries, including that of striker Jonah Ayunga, have complicated squad selection. McCarthy stressed the importance of recognising all players’ contributions.
“Those in Europe and elsewhere are just as Kenyan as the ones here. They work hard with their clubs and deserve to be selected when they perform well,” he said.
He also underlined the need to protect players’ club careers while assembling competitive national lineups.
Slim chances
McCarthy noted that the progress of emerging talents in foreign leagues is being closely monitored. With four qualifiers left, he admitted Kenya’s chances of reaching the next World Cup remain slim but emphasised the importance of fighting for every point.
“We want to maximise that and give our players valuable international experience,” he said.
Team captain Michael Olunga highlighted the importance of continued investment in sports infrastructure, praising recent government support.
“Infrastructure is very key and important in terms of the development of football in this country,” he said. “A big thanks goes to the government for supporting in every way possible so that these training facilities can be at the top level for the players to perform.”
Olunga also urged fans to extend their passion beyond the national team.
“Let it not just end with the national team. Let’s also support our local clubs so they can get revenues from collections and have high-level games,” he said.
Looking ahead to Friday’s qualifier against The Gambia, Olunga said the squad remains optimistic.
“Right now, the team is in good spirits. Players are motivated, and fans are already supporting us. I believe we are going to replicate a good performance,” he said.
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