2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Benni McCarthy fires warning to South Africa ahead of Kenya double-header

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has challenged his players to approach their upcoming double-header against South Africa with the right mentality, insisting the Harambee Stars will not travel to simply make up the numbers.

The East Africans face a difficult assignment against Bafana Bafana in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with the two sides meeting twice within four days this month.

Kenya will travel to South Africa for the first encounter at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday, November 13, before hosting their opponents at Nyayo National Stadium on Tuesday, November 17.

McCarthy, who enjoyed a distinguished playing career with South Africa, understands the quality and experience within the Bafana squad but wants his players to approach both matches with confidence and a determination to compete.

South Africa have made an impressive start to their qualifying campaign, winning their opening two matches to lead Group D with six points.

Hugo Broos’ side began with a 2-1 victory over Guinea before recording a commanding 5-0 triumph against Eritrea.

Kenya, by contrast, have endured a difficult start, collecting just one point from their first two matches to occupy third place in the group.

McCarthy demands fighting spirit from Harambee Stars

Despite the contrasting starts, McCarthy is determined to ensure his team approach the encounters without fear, urging his players to demonstrate the commitment required at international level.

The former Bafana Bafana striker believes respect for their opponents must not come at the expense of Kenya’s ambitions as they seek positive results from the two meetings.

“We have to approach these matches with the right mentality,” McCarthy said, per The Star Kenya.

“South Africa have quality and experience, but we must believe in ourselves and play to our strengths. We are not going there merely to participate.

“We need players who are ready to compete and understand what it means to represent their country. Everyone called up must come with the hunger to fight for a place in the team.”

The Kenyan coach also challenged his younger players to recognise that natural ability alone would not be enough to establish themselves in the national team.

He wants them to demonstrate the discipline, work ethic and maturity needed to cope with the demands of international football.

“Young players must understand that talent alone is not enough. They have to work hard, learn and show that they can handle the demands of international football.

“We respect South Africa, but our responsibility is to Kenya. We want to compete, get results and give our supporters something to be proud of.”

Kenya seek momentum despite early qualifying struggles

The Harambee Stars have struggled to find their rhythm in the opening rounds, drawing 1-1 against Eritrea before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Guinea.

Those results have left McCarthy’s side with just one point from a possible six, increasing the importance of their upcoming meetings with the group leaders.

However, Kenya’s participation in the qualifiers comes with a different context, having already secured a place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Consequently, the remaining qualifying fixtures provide McCarthy with an opportunity to assess his squad, improve performances and build a competitive team ahead of the continental tournament.

The double-header against South Africa will offer a significant test of Kenya’s progress, with McCarthy hoping his players can translate his demand for a stronger mentality into performances and results on the pitch.