Benni McCarthy’s decision to retire marks the end of an illustrious career spanning two decades in football. The South African striker, known for being the top scorer of the 1998 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), has decided to hang up his boots.
McCarthy’s final club was Orlando Pirates, where he played from 2011 until the end of his career. Reflecting on his 17-year professional career, he expressed gratitude for surpassing his own expectations. He mentioned the privilege of playing under various great coaches, including José Mourinho, with whom he won the UEFA Champions League with FC Porto in 2004 and secured two Portuguese league titles. McCarthy had also been a champion in the Netherlands with Ajax Amsterdam in 1998, playing for five European clubs across four championships.
As Bafana Bafana’s top scorer, McCarthy leaves a significant legacy in South African football. His achievements both at the national and club levels have made him a prominent figure in the sport, and his retirement marks the closing of a notable chapter in the history of South African football.
