Nairobi, Kenya — Kenya’s Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has expressed heartfelt appreciation to Kenyan football fans for their overwhelming support, calling it “out of this world.”
The South African legend, who took charge of the national team earlier this year, said the passion and energy shown by supporters during his short time in charge have been some of the most memorable moments in his coaching career.
“I’ve played and coached all over the world, but what I felt at Nyayo Stadium during my first home game was something else. The fans were amazing, even though we lost that day,” Benni said.
Although Kenya fell 2-1 to Gabon in that opening home match, McCarthy was quick to highlight the crowd’s energy as a turning point in team morale.
That positive energy appeared to pay off in their next match as Kenya made history by defeating tournament favorites DR Congo 1-0 in their opening game of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), played at a packed Kasarani Stadium.
It was Kenya’s first-ever win at the CHAN tournament, which they are co-hosting this year.
McCarthy called the performance “a statement win” and praised his players for their discipline and composure on the big stage.
“We knew what we were up against. DR Congo is a strong side with tournament experience, but the boys stood tall. I couldn’t be prouder,” he said.
The Harambee Stars are now preparing for two critical group matches, Thursday vs Angola and Sunday vs Morocco.
Both are expected to be tough encounters, but the mood in the Kenyan camp remains high. Assistant coach Vasili Manousakis and Benni’s wife Stacey McCarthy took to social media to share behind-the-scenes moments from the team’s celebrations and training.
Their posts have further fueled excitement among fans, with #HarambeeStars trending on Kenyan Twitter throughout the week.
Kenya’s strong start at CHAN 2025 is not only historic—it’s symbolic of a new era in Kenyan football under Benni McCarthy’s leadership.
The former UEFA Champions League winner brings international experience, tactical discipline, and a genuine love for African football.
“The fans give us power. We play for them,” Benni added.
With confidence high and the nation behind them, Kenya’s CHAN journey is just beginning—but it’s already off to a dream start.
