McCarthy expects mixed reception on Kenya return to Orlando Amstel Arena

Benni McCarthy says he is not expecting a warm welcome when he returns to Orlando Amstel Arena with Kenya to face Bafana Bafana.

The former Orlando Pirates striker will return to the stadium 14 years after a successful spell with the Buccaneers, during which he helped the club win several trophies, including the league title.

But McCarthy will be in the opposing dugout for the first of two successive AFCON qualifiers between Kenya and South Africa. Both teams will be targeting three points in a match carrying significance for their respective campaigns.

Kenya have already qualified as co-hosts, but victory would provide a further boost. Bafana Bafana, meanwhile, will be seeking to preserve their perfect start to the group campaign and strengthen their position in the qualification race.

McCarthy has previously returned to Orlando Amstel Arena during spells with Cape Town City and AmaZulu, but this occasion will again be competitive rather than sentimental. He recognises the importance of the fixture to South African football supporters, while accepting that his past with Orlando Pirates is unlikely to influence the atmosphere.

“The emotions died the day I hung up my boots. Now it’s just memories – good memories. It was a good time,” McCarthy said.

He also acknowledged that he should not expect the home crowd to celebrate his return while he is attempting to lead Kenya to victory over their team.

“I am not expecting people to cheer or applaud. I will be facing their team, and players, and I will be on the opposite dugout. We are going to be looking to beat their team, and vice versa.”

McCarthy said the result would not affect his feelings towards the people and place connected with his time at Orlando Pirates.

Regardless of which side wins, he intends to meet friends and former acquaintances after the final whistle.

“I will think about the people that I need to greet after the game, when some hearts are broken – either ours or theirs. Then we’ll have a laugh, and cheer with the people that I remember from the time that I used to be here at the stadium,” McCarthy added.