Benni McCarthy, now coach of the Harambee Stars, continues to make a significant impact on footballers across the continent not just in his native South Africa but beyond. Though he officially retired from playing years ago, his influence remains deeply felt by players who grew up watching his exploits and aspire to emulate his leadership and footballing excellence.
One such player is Fawaaz Basadien, a promising left-back currently with Stellenbosch FC, who recently had the honour of captaining South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana. The 27-year-old was handed the armband for the friendly match against Tanzania only his fifth appearance for the national side which ended in a goalless draw. Yet for Basadien, the opportunity represented far more than just a match; it was the realization of a dream shaped by figures like McCarthy.
Basadien recalled how watching players like McCarthy and Nasief Morris while growing up inspired him to not only aim for the national team but to embody the qualities of leadership they displayed on and off the pitch. McCarthy, South Africa’s all-time top scorer, famously captained the Bafana Bafana during a golden era, and his legacy has left an indelible impression on the next generation.
Basadien credited McCarthy as a major influence in how he views leadership, particularly the importance of composure, discipline, and being a role model. Though McCarthy has never coached him directly, his storied career and enduring reputation have served as a blueprint for young players aspiring to lead.
“I think growing up watching the national team, I mainly watched guys like Benni McCarthy, and I also played with Nasief Morris,” Basadien said. “I think those guys, I’ve been watching in the national team. Obviously Nasief Morris was a big legend and Benni McCarthy as well. So, for me, I think it was always learning from them and trying to see what they do.”
Having had the chance to play alongside Morris during his club career, Basadien explained how the experience allowed him to absorb leadership lessons firsthand. Morris, known for his calm demeanor and strong presence at the back, complemented the bold and goal-scoring prowess of McCarthy. Together, their examples formed the foundation for how Basadien now approaches his own responsibilities in the national setup.
“For me, I think that was just to learn and take from them. That when one day if I am a captain of the national team, I’ll just try and implement it and obviously just help those who’re coming through,” he added.
Benni McCarthy’s impact goes beyond his record-breaking achievements on the pitch. Now, in his role as head coach of Kenya’s Harambee Stars, he is nurturing talent on another front. Yet even from afar, his legacy in South African football remains strong, as he continues to inspire young players to rise to the occasion and lead with pride.
For Basadien, wearing the captain’s armband wasn’t just about leading the team on the field it was a moment that connected past and present, and a testament to the enduring influence of legends like McCarthy. As South Africa seeks to build a new generation of leaders, the blueprint laid by their former captain remains a guiding light.
