Senzo Mbatha describes Benni McCarthy as ‘an excellent coach for Kenya’

Renowned South African football executive Senzo Mbatha believes Kenya national team Harambee Stars are very lucky to have the services of South African coach Benni McCarthy.

The 47-year-old took over the reins as Kenya coach in March 2025, after signing a two-year contract until the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He was appointed by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and was given a free hand to bring in Vasili Manousakis, Moeneeb Josephs, and Pilela Maposa as part of his technical staff.

McCarthy’s role included leading Kenya through their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and into the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host. McCarthy’s real test for Kenya came during the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) where the East African nation reached the knockout stages on their debut campaign before losing to Madagascar on penalties.

McCarthy is in the highest level in the EPL

“Benni is a world respected coach, he’s done well in South Africa, and he has also played for big figures. He is somebody that works hard and demands from his players,” said Mbatha as quoted by Citizen Digital.

“He is in the highest level in the EPL, so you guys are very fortunate to have that type of a coach. It is important for the players to very quickly adapt and provide him with the support that Benni needs.”

McCarthy to lead Kenya against Burundi and Ivory Coast

McCarthy has already unveiled his final squad for Kenya’s final two FIFA World Cup qualifier fixtures against Burundi and Ivory Coast. Both matches will be played away, marking the conclusion of the Harambee Stars’ qualification campaign.

The squad blends experience with fresh talent. England-based defender Vincent Harper joins the team while striker Lawrence Okoth steps up from the junior ranks after impressing with the Kenya U20 side at the 2025 U20 AFCON in Egypt, where he netted two goals in the group stage.

Kenya will first face Burundi on October 9, 2025, at Intwari Stadium with kick off set for 4pm EAT, before wrapping up their campaign against Ivory Coast on October 14, 2025, kicking off at 10pm EAT, at Alassane Outtara Stadium.

The Harambee Stars will be looking to finish their qualification journey on a positive note. The squad will report to camp in early October, with the final travelling list set to be confirmed following medical and fitness assessments.

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