For any national football team, the quest for consistent success is a perpetual journey, marked by periods of fervent hope, challenging setbacks, and the relentless pursuit of breakthroughs. In Kenya, the ardent supporters of the Harambee Stars have followed this journey with unwavering passion, eagerly anticipating the moment when a new chapter of triumph would officially begin. That moment arrived yesterday evening in the vibrant city of Marraketch, Morocco, where the Harambee Stars clinched a decisive 2-1 victory over Chad in a FIFA international friendly. This outcome is far more than just a scoreline; it represents a significant psychological boost, a validation of new leadership, and a tangible sign of renewed promise for Kenyan football under the astute stewardship of Coach Benni McCarthy.
Coach McCarthy’s tenure with the Harambee Stars has, until now, been characterized by a diligent, yet challenging, bedding-in period. His initial assignments, including the demanding 2026 World Cup qualifiers, saw the Stars battling fiercely, evidenced by a hard-fought three-all draw against Gambia and a narrow 2-1 defeat to Gabon. These encounters, while demonstrating moments of potential, underscored the need for that elusive first win to truly ignite confidence and momentum within the squad. This past Saturday, a prior encounter with Chad at the very same venue resulted in a drab, barren draw, leaving fans yearning for a more conclusive performance. The weight of this winless streak, stretching back to January of this year when they last defeated Tanzania by a similar scoreline, had undeniably begun to settle on the team.
However, the yesterday's match against Chad proved to be the pivotal turning point the nation had been craving. From the onset, there was a discernible shift in the Harambee Stars' approach, a newfound attacking impetus that quickly translated into tangible results. The opening goal, arriving in the 18th minute, was a moment of sheer delight and symbolic significance. It came courtesy of Emmanuel Osoro, a player earning his very first international call-up. To mark such a momentous debut with a goal speaks volumes not only of Osoro’s individual talent but also of Coach McCarthy’s keen eye for scouting and willingness to trust emerging capabilities.
The Stars’ dominance in the first half was further cemented shortly before the half-time whistle, when David Sakwa expertly doubled their lead. This two-goal cushion provided a comfortable advantage and sent a clear message of intent to their opponents. The efficacy of Kenya’s offensive plays in the first 45 minutes showcased a more cohesive and incisive attacking unit, hinting at the fruits of McCarthy's tactical work on the training ground. The contributions of both Osoro and Sakwa highlight a refreshing infusion of talent and a broader base from which the national team can now draw.
The second half, as is often the case in international friendlies, brought its own set of challenges and tactical adjustments. Chad, buoyed by several strategic changes at half-time, found a renewed vigour in their play. Their efforts were duly rewarded in the 60th minute when Aki Mammar managed to pull one goal back, injecting a fresh dose of tension into the contest. This period tested the Harambee Stars’ resolve, forcing them to defend resolutely and manage the game under increased pressure. Their ability to weather this resurgence and maintain their lead, securing the 2-1 victory, underscored a crucial element of resilience and game management that will be vital in future competitive encounters.
This match categorically ended Kenya’s taxing six-match winless streak, a period that had undoubtedly tested the morale of players and fans alike. Breaking such a run of barren results is an immense psychological triumph, releasing pent-up pressure and injecting the squad with much-needed confidence. This victory serves as a tangible reward for their perseverance and a strong affirmation of the direction in which Coach McCarthy is steering the team.
Furthermore, this international friendly against Chad was a crucial preparatory fixture for the highly anticipated African Nations Championship (CHAN). Kenya is set to jointly host this prestigious tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda, commencing on August 2nd this year. These preparatory matches are indispensable for forging team cohesion, refining tactical approaches, and evaluating player readiness for the intense demands of a major continental championship, especially one on home soil. In conclusion, Coach Benni McCarthy’s inaugural victory with the Harambee Stars marks a pivotal moment for Kenyan football.
