South Africans continue to send mixed signals regarding Benni McCarthy’ appointment as Harambee Stars coach.
Benni McCarthy‘s appointment as Harambe Stars coach on March 3 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) pavilon, sent shock waves to the footballing world.
The South African inked a two-year deal with the Football Kenya Federation that runs through to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations that will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
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Even though the dust has settled and McCarthy has already guided Harambee Stars to a 3-3 draw against Gambia in the 2026 World Cup qualifier clash, South Africans are still at pains why Benni McCarthy made the toughest and unpopular choice.
Mohammed Bajaber was a shing light in Harambee Stars 3-3 draw against The Gambia but how did he perform at the Alassane Quattara Stadium in Ivory Coast?
One fan in particular vented his frustration as to why Benni McCarthy chose Kenya when he had many options to pick from according to Goal.com.
“I am still wondering why Benni chose that country, but I’m sure there were many more offers to choose before with quality players. Soon he will feel pressure with the squad he has. But it is his choice.” Mbongenii Lorch said.
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Harambee Stars scored a last-minute goal to secure a thrilling 3-3 draw with The Gambia and after the stalemate, they have it all to do to claim a first-ever World Cup ticket.
Another fan opined that the former Manchester United assistant coach is already feeling the heat ater just one match if his visible touchline frustrations was anything to go by.
“I was watching the game! Those boys are far from being there. Even Benni at one moment was too stressed to even say something,” Mabuty Nhlapo observed.
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Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy still has hopes of clinching a World Cup place despite a draw away to the Gambia as he looks to freshen up the team for Gabon on Sunday.
McCarthy however, received the backing from others with Marvi Barth in particular saying he will take the Stars’ places. “He was labelled as a bad boy but Benni McCarthy is arguably one of the best strikers from South Africa. Show them, man!”
Benni McCarthy will lead Harambee Stars in his second match against Gabon in the2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.
It could be an emotional moment for McCarthy, the players and the fans too considering that this will be the first time in four years that Harambee Stars will play in front of their own fans. Kenya is placed fourth in Group F with six points, seven behind leaders Ivory Coast.
