Benni McCarthy has been appointed as head coach of Kenya’s national football team, aiming for World Cup qualification in 2026. He signed a two-year contract to lead the Harambee Stars through to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. McCarthy, a former South African striker, replaces interim coach Francis Kimanzi, and will start with crucial World Cup qualifiers this month.
Benni McCarthy has expressed optimism regarding the potential for Kenya to secure World Cup qualification in 2026 following his appointment as the head coach of the national team. The former South African striker has signed a two-year contract, which will see him guide the Harambee Stars through to the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Replacing interim coach Francis Kimanzi, McCarthy will lead the team into crucial World Cup qualifiers against The Gambia and Gabon this month. “Participating in the World Cup is one of the most special feelings in the world, and I want to give them that,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of dedication and willingness from the players.
Currently, Kenya is positioned fourth in Group F, with five points from four matches, trailing behind leaders Ivory Coast. Only the group winner qualifies automatically, while the best runners-up from the nine groups can enter through playoffs, heightening the stakes for McCarthy’s debut matches in charge.
Renowned in African football, McCarthy enjoyed a successful playing career in Europe, winning league titles in the Netherlands and Portugal, as well as the prestigious Champions League with Porto under José Mourinho. His managerial experience includes stints at Cape Town City and AmaZulu, and most recently, he contributed to Erik ten Hag’s staff at Manchester United.
His appointment reflects the commitment of the newly elected Football Kenya Federation to revitalize the national team’s profile. McCarthy aims to instill a strong work ethic and identity within the team, asserting, “For me, it’s about giving the fans, the true Kenyan, an identity” while promising a team that embodies dedication and pride in representing the nation.
In summary, Benni McCarthy’s appointment as head coach of the Kenyan national football team represents a pivotal moment for Kenyan football. His ambition to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, backed by his extensive experience and commitment to fostering a dedicated team culture, highlights the potential for Kenya to achieve new heights in international football. With upcoming World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, the focus now shifts to whether McCarthy can lead the Harambee Stars to their first World Cup appearance.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
