McCarthy confident as Harambee Stars brace for Madagascar test in CHAN quarters

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has expressed unwavering confidence as his side gears up for a historic quarterfinal clash against Madagascar at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Friday, August 22, at 5PM EAT.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference flanked by assistant captain Sakari, McCarthy said Stars’ group stage journey had steeled them for the knockout rounds.

Kenya emerged from a tough pool featuring DR Congo, Angola, Morocco, and Zambia to book their place in the last eight.

“After the test we faced at the group stage, I think there is no team that we are afraid of anymore. Our chances were slim, but we proved ourselves capable of surpassing those hurdles. Whoever comes next will be a good challenge, but our focus is on ourselves and advancing to the next stage,” said McCarthy.

The South African tactician noted that his preparations go beyond tactics, emphasizing mental strength.

“I work on building match temperament within my players. Expectations are high, but we did our analysis on potential opponents. Madagascar will be another obstacle, and no matter what we achieved before, it is forgotten. We must prepare the best we can,” averred McCarthy.

McCarthy confirmed there were no major injury concerns heading into the quarterfinal. The only unavailable player is Chrispine Erambo, suspended after receiving a red card in Stars’ 1-0 win over Morocco.

Striker Edward Ondimo, who picked up a blister injury, has resumed full training and will be available for selection.

Acknowledging goalkeeper Byrne Omondi’s man-of-the-match heroics, McCarthy urged his squad to improve their attacking output.

“We are not scoring enough goals upfront. That means we must work harder and be ready to rake up the challenge. Scoring more is what will take us where we want to be, so they better be well prepared.”

Sakari praised the fans for their unwavering support, dubbing them the 12th man, but stressed that the squad remains focused regardless of outside noise.

“We are not distracted by anything as our focus is the next task ahead of us,” he affirmed.

Victory against Madagascar would propel Kenya into a semifinal showdown against either Algeria or Sudan, who face off on Saturday, August 23, in Zanzibar.

For Harambee Stars, tomorrow’s clash is more than just a quarterfinal—it is a chance to cement their place in CHAN history.