Harambee Stars Secure First Win Under Benni McCarthy, Eye CHAN and World Cup Qualification
Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, marked a new era under head coach Benni McCarthy with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Chad in their second friendly match in Morocco. This win, which came on June 10, 2025, was McCarthy’s first since taking charge in March 2025, ending a three-match winless streak that included two draws and a loss.
Match Recap: Kenya 2-1 Chad
The match saw Emmanuel Osoro shine in his debut, scoring the opener in the 17th minute after a precise cross from Ben Stanley Omondi. Just before halftime, Osoro turned provider, setting up David Sakwa, who calmly slotted home Kenya’s second goal in the 44th minute. Chad responded in the 59th minute through Mahamat Ali, but Kenya held firm to secure the win.
McCarthy praised the team’s progress, emphasizing the importance of consistency. “For the boys that are going to play in CHAN, I hope this experience has shown them the level I expect and the level we can reach when we play our best football,” he stated.
Upcoming Matches and Competitions
Harambee Stars are now focused on the African Nations Championship (CHAN), set for August 2025, which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania. The tournament, exclusively for players based in local leagues, presents a crucial opportunity for McCarthy to refine his squad and build momentum.
Beyond CHAN, Kenya will resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September, facing Gambia and Seychelles at home before traveling to Burundi and Ivory Coast. With six points from four matches, Kenya sits fourth in Group F, trailing leaders Ivory Coast (16 points) and Gabon (15 points).
World Cup 2026 Qualification Chances
Kenya’s path to the 2026 World Cup remains challenging. To qualify, they must win their remaining four matches, reaching 18 points, and hope for a slip-up from Ivory Coast and Gabon. While the odds are steep, McCarthy remains optimistic about building a competitive squad capable of challenging Africa’s elite.
With renewed energy and tactical discipline under McCarthy, Harambee Stars are showing promise. Their CHAN campaign will be a crucial test before they return to the World Cup qualifiers, where they aim to defy expectations and make history.
