Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has expressed full confidence in his side’s readiness for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), describing the recent friendly victory over Chad as a strong foundation for future progress.
The former South African international was speaking after Harambee Stars defeated Chad 2-1 in the second of two international friendlies played during the June FIFA window in Marrakech, Morocco.
The first match ended in a goalless draw, but the second gave McCarthy a clearer glimpse of the potential within his squad, especially from younger, home-based players aiming to feature at CHAN in August.
“I am very happy for the boys,” McCarthy said. “The Morocco outing was superb. The players got to understand each other, and a lot of positives came from the win.”
Debutant Emmanuel Osoro was central to Kenya’s display, scoring the opener from a Ben Stanley Omondi cross, and later assisting David Sakwa for the second goal just before half-time.
Although Chad pulled one back after the hour mark, McCarthy was more concerned with the structure and execution he witnessed.
“The second match showed what we can do when we’re sharper in front of goal,” he said, explaining how training focused on finishing and speed of play had paid off. “These are the standards we need to meet.”
McCarthy also praised the leadership role played by seasoned internationals like Brian Mandela and Adam Wilson, who were brought in to guide the largely local-based squad.
“They helped shape the team dynamic. Now the boys have seen what I expect.”
With Kenya co-hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, McCarthy believes his squad will be “ready and raring to go” when Group A action kicks off. The hosts will face Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, and Zambia in what promises to be a highly competitive pool.
