Benni McCarthy says Kenya’s draw with South Africa was deserved

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy said the 2-2 draw with his home country South Africa was a fair result after his side salvaged a point in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match.

The Bafana Bafana took the lead in the eighth minute when Kenya defender Amos Wanjala put through his own goal, giving the hosts an early advantage.

Kenya responded shortly before half-time after being awarded a penalty. Captain Michael Olunga converted from the spot in the 42nd minute to bring the visitors level.

South Africa regained the lead in the 77th minute through Relebohile Mofokeng, who was named player of the match. The hosts appeared set to secure victory until Ogam scored a late equaliser for Kenya.

McCarthy, who turned 49 on Thursday, was pleased with the outcome despite the result coming against the country he represented as a player.

“In the end, I think the draw was deserved for both teams,” McCarthy said. “Whoever had won, I don’t think people would have been unhappy or said one team had been lucky.

“Over the 90 minutes, both teams had their chances, both goalkeepers performed well and allowed their teams to remain in the match.”

The result leaves South Africa top of the qualifying group with seven points from three matches. Guinea are second on six points, also having played three games.

The two sides will meet again in the corresponding fixture on Tuesday, 17 November 2026. After the match, the Bafana Bafana travelled to Nairobi, where they will face Kenya.