CHAN: Kenya coach McCarthy urges focus after perfect group stage campaign

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy urged his charges to stay focused after sealing their place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a perfect record following their 1-0 win against Zambia at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

Ryan Ogam’s decisive strike midway through the second half after being assisted by substitute Boniface Muchiri, ensured the Harambee Stars finished unbeaten at the summit of the group, while Zambia exited the competition without a single point.

“I am very happy that the boys have delivered and picked three wins and one draw in the group stage. This has been as a result of hard work and we must remain focused ahead of the quarter final stage,” said McCarthy after the game.

“Zambia was stubborn today; they defended and played very well. But, at the end of the day, when we moved the ball the way that we did, and created the chance for Ryan (Ogam), we scored one goal, yet we would have liked them to be more.”

He concluded: “At the end of the day, I am happy with the win because we get to play our next match in the quarter finals, and we stay in Kenya, and that is all that is important.”

Kenya will stay in Nairobi to play Madagascar in the quarter-final on Friday while Morocco travel to face Tanzania in the other last eight match.