Kenya coach Benni McCarthy believes his side were the better team against Eritrea despite having to settle for a 1-1 draw in their opening 2027 AFCON qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium, with Ryan Ogam’s late equaliser cancelling out Nahom Girmai’s first-half opener for the visitors.
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“We were the better team. Unfortunately we could not convert all our chances and that ended up costing us all three points. However the boys played well and we’ve seen what our faults were and we shall work on them in camp ahead of the next match,” McCarthy said.
The Harambee Stars coach was quick to praise the home support at Nyayo National Stadium, promising better performances to come as a way of repaying their backing.
“I always fail to find words for the Kenyan fans. We are so grateful for the attendance and for the support, it goes a long way and we will repay that with a standout performance in our next qualifier,” he said.
Looking ahead to Kenya’s next assignment against Guinea, McCarthy struck a determined tone despite the missed opportunity against Eritrea.
“We wanted all three points but that’s how the game of football goes. We know what we need to do against Guinea and we will work hard to deliver all three points for every Kenyan,” he said.
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McCarthy also used his post-match comments to address ongoing off-pitch issues that have disrupted the squad’s preparations, including a reported dispute over unpaid allowances and work permit delays for himself and his coaching staff.
“I have said before that what’s happening in Kenyan football is affecting my job, because nobody wants to come to a sinking ship. However, we are professionals and we know what we need to do. So our focus is the match against Guinea and we hope for a better performance,” he said.
“We are fortunate to be part of the host nations but that doesn’t mean that we do not put our best foot forward. We will be ready for Guinea.”
Photo: Zamani Makautsi/Gallo Images
