CHAN2024:Fans, President Ruto hail McCarthy’s tactics as Kenya shock Morocco

Kenyans and football fans have expressed their confidence and appreciation for Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy and his players following Kenya’s stunning 1-0 victory over Morocco.

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The Group A match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) was played on Sunday, 10 August, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

Ryan Ogam’s 42nd-minute strike proved decisive as Kenya held on despite going down to 10 men after Chrispine Erambo was sent off at the stroke of halftime.

Just as they did against Angola, the Stars managed to keep a clean sheet with a man less, this time securing maximum points.

Mozzart Sport spoke to fans both at Kasarani and online to capture their reactions.

“Whosoever hired McCarthy should be given a pay raise. In him, we got a gem, the perfect coach for us. In a short time, he has revived the dying spirit in the team.

You can clearly see the fighting spirit he has instilled in the boys. With that, it’s easier for fans to rally behind the team because they know the players are giving their best,” said James Odhiambo after the match.

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McCarthy spent much of his time post-match celebrating with the fans, who chanted his name in unison.

For Erick Mochoge, the coach’s in-game adjustments stood out.

“After seeing how Kenya played against Angola with 10 men, I was confident we’d be okay after Erambo’s red card , and we never disappointed.

You must give it to McCarthy for that tactical masterclass. He kept the midfield and defence close together, ensuring we had numbers where it mattered most, in central defence , to deal with crosses.

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I still can’t believe we beat Morocco without Austin Odhiambo,” he said.

Gor Mahia fan Fredrick Nyamunga also credited the win to McCarthy’s tactical nous.

“The match was thrilling. Team Kenya approached the game with a positive mentality. With the support and energy from fans, the players kept their morale high. Credit to McCarthy for making a smart substitution after Erambo’s red card and for strengthening the defence to stay compact,” Nyamunga noted.

On the Harambee Stars Facebook page, Dorcas Wangechi singled out goalkeeper Bryne Omondi, who was named Man of the Match.

“Our goalkeeper was just superb, calm even under pressure. He eased the team’s nerves by collecting Morocco’s crosses with ease. In him, we have a perfect man between the posts,” she wrote.

Another fan, Daarwish MO, saw the result as bigger than just three points.

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“Against Morocco, you showed courage, skill, and the unbreakable Kenyan spirit. From the first whistle to the last, you fought for every ball and emerged victorious.

This win is for every Kenyan in every corner of our land. You’ve made us believe, you’ve made us proud, and you’ve reminded the world that Kenya’s roar is loud and clear.”

To cap it off, President William Ruto also congratulated the team, pledging Ksh 1 million to each player for the win.