Benni McCarthy Warns Bafana Bafana Ahead of Kenya Return Clash

Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has warned Bafana Bafana that Tuesday’s return encounter in Nairobi will present a different challenge, insisting that his players will look to take the game to South Africa from the opening whistle.

The two nations played out an entertaining 2-2 draw at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday night, with Kenya twice coming from behind to secure a point.

Bafana appeared to have taken control of the contest after scoring through Iqraam Rayners and taking the lead for a second time. However, Ryan Ogam struck a late equaliser to deny Pitso Mosimane’s men all three points.

Following the result, McCarthy has made it clear that he expects his team to approach the return fixture with greater attacking intent, particularly with the advantage of playing in front of their home supporters.

Speaking about Tuesday’s encounter, the former Bafana Bafana striker pointed to the differences in altitude and climate between South Africa and Kenya as factors that could influence the match.

“When we go home it will be different, I’m not sure whether South Africa will be accustomed to the altitude, the climate in Kenya,” McCarthy said.

“Our players are accustomed to it. So, we will be looking to take the game to them because we saw [on Friday] when we want to play, we can play.

“We just have to do that from the first minute of the game, take the game to them.”

His comments suggest that Kenya will be looking to build on the confidence gained from their performance in Johannesburg rather than simply relying on a defensive approach.

The Harambee Stars showed their attacking potential during Friday’s meeting, particularly after making tactical adjustments that allowed them to compete more effectively against South Africa.

McCarthy also demonstrated his ability to change the system during the match, switching to a back three after identifying the problems caused by Bafana’s attacking full-backs.

The adjustment helped Kenya regain control of certain areas of the contest and create opportunities to trouble the hosts.

Meanwhile, Mosimane will have to address the defensive issues that allowed Kenya to find the net twice, especially after his side failed to protect their advantage in the closing stages.

The result also ended Bafana’s perfect start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, increasing the importance of their next assignment.

Kenya, who are already assured of a place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts, will be eager to make another statement against their more highly ranked opponents.

Tuesday’s meeting at Nyayo National Stadium will therefore provide another test for both coaches, with McCarthy determined to use familiar conditions to his team’s advantage.

For Bafana, the challenge will be adapting to the Kenyan environment while finding a way to prevent the hosts from dictating proceedings.

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