How new Harambee Stars coach arrived at Dandora Stadium in style [VIDEO]

Newly appointed Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy attended an FKF Premier League fixture between Kariobangi Sharks and Gor Mahia.

The newly appointed Harambee Stars head coach, Benni McCarthy, made a striking debut in Kenyan football on Wednesday, marking his first public appearance since his unveiling just days earlier.

McCarthy made his way to Dandora Stadium during the much-anticipated FKF Premier League match between Kariobangi Sharks and Gor Mahia.

His arrival was nothing short of grand, with the tactician rolling up in a luxurious Cadillac Escalade, accompanied by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president McDonald Mariga, former Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi, and a couple of members of his coaching staff.

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The flamboyant arrival was a glimpse of the high-profile treatment McCarthy has been receiving since being appointed as the head coach of the national team.

His appointment, which was officially announced during a grand unveiling ceremony on Monday, has been accompanied by reports of a substantial salary, reportedly up to Ksh 8 million per month, for the duration of his two-year contract in Kenya.

McCarthy’s appearance at the Dandora Stadium was more than just a show of his star power.

It also served as a critical scouting mission ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with crucial fixtures against Gambia on March 20 and Gabon on March 23.

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As the new coach of the national team, McCarthy’s presence at the match allowed him to evaluate some of the local talent on display as he looks to build a strong squad for these pivotal qualifiers.

The match itself proved to be a thrilling encounter as Kariobangi Sharks opened the scoring through Fortune Omoto, putting them 1-0 up in the first half.

However, Gor Mahia, the FKF Premier League champions, responded with determination.

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Alpha Onyango equalized for K’Ogalo deep into first-half stoppage time, sending both teams into the break level at 1-1.

In the second half, the match was decided by Austine Odhiambo’s brilliant brace.

He scored from a well-taken free kick before converting a penalty to give Gor Mahia a commanding 3-1 lead and secure all three points.

The victory was a vital one for the champions, keeping them in the hunt for the top positions in the league.

Gor Mahia have made key squad changes, bringing in fresh talent while letting go of some players in a strategic reshuffle.

Though McCarthy left the stadium before the final whistle, it’s clear he was closely observing the talent on display.

His visit was not only a demonstration of his interest in the local game but also a signal of the high expectations surrounding his tenure.

With a significant international spotlight on the Harambee Stars’ upcoming World Cup qualifiers, McCarthy’s role in reshaping the team will be under close scrutiny as he looks to guide Kenya to a successful campaign.

In the coming months, McCarthy will have to use his extensive coaching experience from his stints with Cape Town City, Amazulu and his former role as Manchester United first team coach to make strategic decisions regarding player selection.

His first public appearance has set the tone for what promises to be an exciting new chapter in Kenyan football.