Kenya’s Harambee Stars clinched a 2-1 victory against Chad at the Marrakech Stadium in Morocco, marking head coach Benni McCarthy’s first win at the helm of the national team.
The much-needed result came just days after a lackluster 0-0 draw against the same opponents on Saturday, June 7. Seeking a spark, McCarthy made nine changes to the starting lineup — a gamble that paid off with improved tempo and execution.
Emmanuel Osoro, the in-form FC Talanta striker, opened the scoring in the 18th minute. He latched onto a low cross from Ben Stanley, finishing a sharp passing sequence that sliced through Chad’s defense.
Osoro wasn’t done. He turned provider later in the match, setting up David Sakwa after receiving a slick pass from Austin Odhiambo, doubling Kenya’s lead and giving the team a firm grip on the contest.
Chad, despite being ranked 66 places below Kenya in the FIFA standings, responded with urgency in the second half. Ali Mahamat pulled a goal back with a precise header past Kenyan goalkeeper Farouk Shikhalo, but it proved only a consolation as Kenya held on.
The win snaps a frustrating streak for McCarthy, whose first three matches ended without a victory: a 3-3 draw against The Gambia, a 2-1 loss to Gabon, and the recent goalless draw with Chad.
Reflecting on the breakthrough, McCarthy — formerly a Manchester United assistant coach — emphasized patience and long-term planning.
“Rome wasn’t built in a day,” he noted. “We’re focused on growth, and this is a step in the right direction as we prepare for CHAN 2025 in August.”
With this result, Harambee Stars now have momentum and confidence as they continue to rebuild under new leadership.
