Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy expressed his delight after his team executed their game plan to perfection in a 2-1 victory over Chad on Tuesday, 10 June, night in Marrakech, Morocco.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe win came just three days after a drab goalless draw in the first leg against the same opponent. Kenya responded with a revamped performance, featuring ten locally-based players in the starting XI, and clinched their first win under the South African tactician.##NAJAVA_MECA_8972515##Kenya dominated the first half, scoring two goals through debutants Emmanuel Osoro and David Sakwa, both netting their first goals for the national team.However, the second half proved more challenging as Chad pulled one back and piled on the pressure. Despite the tense closing stages, Kenya held firm to secure the win.Kenyan forward secures three-month trial with Swedish sideAhead of the Tuesday rematch, McCarthy urged his players to show more urgency and capitalise on their opportunities.“I told them, ‘push a little harder, keep the same style of play, and take your chances.’ The players responded brilliantly. The newcomers stepped up and delivered. This was the performance I have been looking for. I am proud of the team—they earned this win, and it gives us a solid foundation to build on.”Kenyans react to Benni McCarthy’s first win as Harambee Stars coachMcCarthy was thrilled with the result but even more pleased that both goals stemmed from routines practiced in training the day before the match.“In our final training session on Monday, we emphasised ball control, quick build-up play, and how to transition swiftly once we crossed the halfway line. The first goal was a textbook execution—Ben Stanley broke down the flank and delivered a perfect cross for Osoro, who made the near-post run we had worked on,” McCarthy told FKF Media.Edward ‘Ondimo’ Omondi on how FKFPL fame has changed his life in Dandora“The second goal followed a similar pattern. We had Austin play higher up the pitch in the number ten role, rather than dropping deep. He linked up with Osoro on the left, who then turned provider with a quality cross for Sakwa to finish.”Reflecting on the first match, McCarthy admitted the team was disappointed not to have won despite dominating possession and chances.“In the first game, we played really well and deserved the win. You could see the frustration on the players’ faces. That result became a motivator—they knew they had to do better.”Joshua ‘Mangulu’ Onyango explains reasons for Gor Mahia’s struggles this seasonMcCarthy also praised the extended training camp, which he believes played a crucial role in the team’s cohesion both on and off the pitch.“I am really happy for the boys. It’s been a productive week. They trained well, bonded as a group, and got to understand each other better. This win is a reward for the effort and spirit they have shown in camp.” Wanyama backs Kenya to host FIFA World Cup in future
