McCarthy hails players’ resilience after gritty win over Burundi

Kenya’s red-hot striker Ryan Ogam scored the decisive goal with a stunning strike from outside the box, assisted by captain Michael Olunga, sealing all three points in what McCarthy described as “one of the toughest matches” his team has played.

Speaking after the game, McCarthy lauded his players for their composure and fight under harsh conditions.

“Today was a very tough match, first because of the conditions,” he said. “We are not used to playing on a surface like this, and losing our goalkeeper early on made things even harder. But my players showed incredible character and respect despite the physical challenges,” the ex-South African international said. 

McCarthy however lamented the overly physical nature of the game, calling for fairer play in international fixtures.

“In better conditions, on a proper pitch, we would have played much better football. Burundi are a good side, but today wasn’t real football. Still, justice was served, and I’m proud of how my players handled themselves.”

Team captain Michael Olunga, who set up Ogam’s winning goal, echoed his coach’s sentiments.

“It was a difficult game, especially with the heat and the pitch,” Olunga said. “We knew they’d be physical, but we kept our focus. Physicality is part of football, but not aggression. I’m proud of the team — we fought hard and got the three points.”

Despite the challenges, the Harambee Stars showed their growing maturity and tactical discipline, weathering Burundi’s physical play to secure their fourth win of the qualifiers.

Burundi’s head coach, Patrick Sangwa, meanwhile, expressed disappointment with the result but commended his players’ effort.

“My players gave everything,” he said. “We wanted to win at home, but it wasn’t our day. We lacked the finishing touch.”

After nine matches, Kenya sits third in Group F with 12 points, though no longer in contention for World Cup qualification. McCarthy’s men will wrap up their campaign against the Ivory Coast on Tuesday, October 14, hoping to end on a high and build momentum for the 2027 AFCON.