Benni McCarthy Under Fire After Kenya’s Struggles in World Cup Qualifiers

Benni McCarthy is facing intense scrutiny after Kenya’s disappointing performances in their recent World Cup qualifiers. The Harambee Stars played to a dramatic 3-3 draw against Gambia before suffering a tough 3-1 defeat to Gabon, raising questions about the South African coach’s squad selection.

Why No Gor Mahia or Tusker FC Players?

There was controversy around McCarthy's choice to leave out players from Tusker FC and Gor Mahia, two of the biggest teams in the Kenyan Premier League. In response, the coach said he had few choices because both teams wanted to keep their players for league games—Gor Mahia played Bandari, Tusker played Posta Rangers.

“When I arrived, I asked for three days to assess some of the best talents in the Kenyan league. The players available during that period are the ones I selected. Gor Mahia and Tusker wanted to keep their players, and we agreed. But I can't pick players I haven’t seen or know nothing about,” McCarthy told Mozzart Sport.

With mounting pressure, the coach now faces a crucial period to turn things around as Kenya fights to stay in the World Cup qualification race.