Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy is confident as his team prepares for a big quarterfinal match against Madagascar on Friday, August 22, at 5PM EAT at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Speaking at a press conference alongside assistant captain Sakari, McCarthy said the tough group stage matches had made the team stronger. Kenya made it through a tough group that included DR Congo, Angola, Morocco, and Zambia.
“After playing such strong teams, we’re no longer afraid of anyone,” McCarthy said. “We didn’t have the best odds, but we showed we can overcome challenges. Now, we are focused on winning and moving forward.”
The South African coach also said that preparing the team mentally is just as important as tactics.
“I train my players to handle pressure. We’ve studied Madagascar and know it won’t be easy, but past wins don’t matter now. We have to give our best,” he added.
McCarthy said there are no major injuries in the team. The only player missing is Chrispine Erambo, who is suspended after a red card in the win against Morocco. Striker Edward Ondimo is back in full training after a foot blister and will be available to play.
He praised goalkeeper Byrne Omondi for his great performance but said the team needs to score more goals.
“We’re not scoring enough. We must work harder because goals will win us games,” McCarthy said.
Sakari thanked the fans for their strong support, calling them the “12th man,” but said the team is staying focused.
“We’re not letting anything distract us. We’re thinking only about the next match,” he said.
If Kenya wins against Madagascar, they will face either Algeria or Sudan in the semifinals, who play on Saturday in Zanzibar.
For Harambee Stars, this game is more than just a quarterfinal — it’s a chance to make history in the CHAN tournament.
