Benni McCarthy is facing growing pressure as Kenya head coach after a difficult start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The former Bafana Bafana striker’s Harambee Stars were held to a 1-1 draw by Eritrea before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Guinea in Conakry. The results leave Kenya with just one point from their opening two Group D matches.
While Kenya have already secured their place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania, the qualifying campaign is being used as competitive preparation for the tournament. That makes results and performances important as McCarthy continues to build his team.
McCarthy’s Bafana reunion is coming
McCarthy’s next major challenge will eventually bring him face-to-face with his former national team.
Kenya were drawn in Group D alongside South Africa, Guinea and Eritrea, setting up a highly anticipated meeting between McCarthy’s Harambee Stars and Bafana Bafana.
The South African coach will therefore have a significant period ahead of him as he attempts to improve Kenya’s performances and establish a squad capable of competing at the 2027 continental tournament.
Results have increased the pressure
Kenya opened their campaign against Eritrea at Nyayo Stadium but had to rely on a late Ryan Ogam equaliser to rescue a point.
The situation did not improve in the following fixture. Serhou Guirassy scored the only goal as Guinea defeated Kenya 1-0 in Conakry, leaving McCarthy’s side without a win from their first two matches.
Kenyan media have subsequently reported increasing scrutiny around McCarthy’s position, with the latest defeat adding to the pressure surrounding his tenure.
Can Benni turn things around?
McCarthy’s appointment represented a significant opportunity for the former Manchester United and Porto striker to make his mark as a national-team head coach.
He has already selected a squad combining established internationals, domestic talent and players based overseas as he attempts to shape Kenya ahead of AFCON 2027.
The upcoming fixtures will provide McCarthy with an opportunity to respond to the criticism and build momentum before Kenya’s highly anticipated meetings with South Africa.
For now, his future remains the subject of growing speculation rather than a confirmed departure.
Can Benni McCarthy turn Kenya’s fortunes around before the Bafana Bafana showdown?
