Benni McCarthy Praises Michael Olunga’s Leadership After Historic Harambee Stars Goal Against South Africa

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has praised captain Michael Olunga for his exceptional commitment to the national team, describing him as an outstanding example of leadership and professionalism following Kenya’s 2-2 draw against South Africa in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

McCarthy singled out the experienced striker for his dedication, discipline and determination to represent the country, noting that Olunga continues to give his best despite the physical demands associated with international football.

The coach’s remarks followed Friday’s November 13, 2026, encounter at the FNB Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg, where Olunga reached another significant milestone by scoring his 35th goal for the national team, drawing level with Kenya’s all-time international scoring record.

The Al Arabi striker played a crucial role in Kenya’s recovery after the hosts took an early advantage. Olunga stepped forward to convert a first-half penalty, restoring parity and giving Harambee Stars renewed belief in a difficult away fixture.

Kenya eventually secured a valuable point after forward Ryan Ogam scored a late equaliser, completing an impressive comeback against the South African side.

Speaking after the match, McCarthy explained that Olunga’s willingness to sacrifice personal time during international breaks demonstrates how much representing Kenya means to him.

The coach observed that while experienced players might prefer to use international breaks to rest or spend time with their families, the Harambee Stars captain consistently reports to camp prepared to work and contribute to the team’s progress.

McCarthy particularly praised the striker’s approach to training, saying the intensity and determination he displays during practice sessions are reflected in his performances on match day.

He also noted that Olunga’s attitude has made his responsibility as head coach easier because the captain provides a practical example of the standards expected from every member of the squad.

According to McCarthy, having a player who consistently demonstrates discipline, commitment and a desire to achieve something meaningful for his country gives younger footballers a role model they can learn from.

Reaching 35 international goals places Olunga among the most influential players in the history of Kenyan football.

The milestone further underlines his importance to Harambee Stars, having established himself as a dependable attacking option and one of the team’s most experienced campaigners.

Beyond his contribution in front of goal, his leadership has remained an important element of the national team’s development, particularly as Kenya seeks to build a competitive squad capable of challenging established African football nations.

His performance against South Africa also demonstrated his ability to deliver during demanding international fixtures, with the penalty providing the foundation for Kenya’s fightback.

Following the encouraging result in Johannesburg, Harambee Stars will now prepare for another meeting with South Africa on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

The return fixture presents Kenya with an opportunity to build on the resilience displayed in Soweto, with home supporters expected to play an important role in motivating the team.

McCarthy and his technical bench will be looking to maintain the team’s fighting spirit while addressing areas that require improvement ahead of the decisive encounter.

For Olunga, the match offers another opportunity to lead from the front as Kenya pursues its ambition of securing a place at the 2027 AFCON tournament.

With his experience, goal-scoring ability and influence in the dressing room, the national team captain remains central to Kenya’s hopes of achieving a positive result against Bafana Bafana.

The 2-2 draw has provided Harambee Stars with renewed confidence, but the Nairobi encounter will be an important test of the team’s ability to turn that momentum into a memorable home performance.

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