McCarthy lauds Ogam's bravery, Byrnes improvement in CHAN

As Kenya prepares for a crunch quarter-final clash against Madagascar on Friday at the Kasarani Stadium, McCarthy has lauded the entire team's effort, saying it has driving the special moments by specific players. Such is Byrne and Ogam.

Speaking in Nairobi on Thursday, McCarthy described Byrne as a late but vital addition to the squad, crediting his composure and leadership as key to Stars’ progression.

“Byrne came in as a late addition to the squad. He has had his down moments, but if you want to come into a big tournament, you need presence—and he certainly has that. We worked a lot on his concentration and leadership, and now the team fully depends on him,” McCarthy said.

The coach acknowledged that Bryne had previously been prone to individual errors but noted his growth and ability to provide leadership in the team.

“Now you see the quality. He deserves the matches he has played, where he was phenomenal, and hopefully he continues to grow game by game,” McCarthy added.

On the attacking front, McCarthy’s faith lies in 20-year-old Ogam, who has scored in crucial back-to-back games despite returning from a serious knee injury earlier this year. McCarthy recalled his first impression of the Tusker forward during a national team camp.

“Ryan was injured, but he still came to camp to show me his dedication. For me, that goes a long way—it tells you this is a player that will die for you when he’s fit. That loyalty stayed with me, and now he is repaying it with goals,” McCarthy explained.

The striker, who had missed four months of action, announced his return just before CHAN and has since produced match-winning performances, including against Zambia and two-time champions Morocco.

“Every match he plays, he’s growing. Two games running, he’s scored winning goals, and he’s put us into a situation to play Madagascar. Hopefully, he continues excelling by helping the team, putting the ball in the back of the net, and taking us through,” McCarthy said.

The coach was also quick to note all players have been giving their all in training, giving him "headache" over who to start, a situation he says is a "good problem."

With the spirit in camp, the coach expects to see even better performances and special moments from any of his players, which can a difference in the Madagascar clash on Friday.

A win against the Barea would propel Harambee Stars to their debut and historic semifinal against the winner of the other quarterfinal berth, pitting Algeria and Sudan, set to be played on Saturday at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.