We can compete against South Africa – Kenya defender Ronney Onyango

Kenya defender Ronney Onyango is confident the Harambee Stars have enough quality to compete with South Africa as both nations prepare for their crucial double-header in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The two sides are set to lock horns for the first time at Orlando Pirates’ Amstel Arena on Friday, November 13, before travelling to Kenya for the return encounter on Tuesday, November 17.

The upcoming fixtures present an important test for both teams as they seek to strengthen their qualification ambitions, with Kenya hoping to make a strong statement against their more experienced South African opponents.

Onyango, who has been included in head coach Benni McCarthy’s final 24-man squad for the two encounters, believes the Harambee Stars possess the necessary quality to challenge Bafana Bafana.

The 25-year-old defender acknowledges the strength of the South African team but insists Kenya should not approach the matches with an inferiority complex.

According to The Star Kenya, Onyango believes the quality within the Harambee Stars squad gives them every reason to be confident heading into the contest.

“South Africa have a strong team, but we also have good players who can compete against them,” Onyango said.

The defender further stressed the importance of maintaining self-belief while respecting the opposition, insisting that Kenya must approach both encounters with the right mentality.

“We respect our opponents, but we must go into the matches believing in ourselves.”

Onyango’s comments reflect the confidence within the Kenyan camp as McCarthy prepares his players for what promises to be a demanding assignment against the South African side.

With the opening encounter scheduled to take place in South Africa, the Harambee Stars will be eager to produce a positive performance away from home before welcoming Bafana Bafana for the reverse fixture.

The return match in Kenya could prove equally important, particularly if the first meeting produces a closely contested result.

For McCarthy, the double-header offers an opportunity to assess his team’s progress and demonstrate their ability to compete against established opposition as the race for qualification to the 2027 AFCON tournament continues.

Kenya will be hoping to translate their confidence into performances on the pitch as they pursue a successful outcome over the two encounters.