McCarthy takes Kenya’s national team to historic CHAN quarter-finals

Zuko Komisa

Kenya make history with nnbeaten run to CHAN Quarter-Finals.

Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Stars, have made history by securing their first-ever spot in the quarter-finals of the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.

The remarkable achievement comes under the guidance of South African head coach, Benni McCarthy.

The team’s success has been built on a formidable unbeaten run in Group A, where they finished at the top of the table. The Harambee Stars demonstrated tactical discipline and resilience, clinching three crucial 1-0 victories against DR Congo, Morocco, and Zambia. Their only dropped points came in a 1-1 draw with Angola.

A pivotal moment in their campaign was the hard-fought win against Zambia at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre. The decisive goal was scored in the 75th minute by Tusker FC striker Ryan Ogam, sealing their place in the knockout stage.

Since his appointment in March 2025, McCarthy has transformed the team, instilling a new level of defensive organisation and tactical prowess.

Looking ahead, the Harambee Stars are set to face Madagascar in the quarter-finals on home soil.

McCarthy has urged his team to stay focused.

“We must remain sharp. This is just the beginning,” he stated, reminding his players that the hard work is far from over.

Kenya now waits with bated breath to see if McCarthy can lead the team even further in the tournament.