Harambee Stars forward Boniface Muchiri is optimistic that Kenya will soon become a dominant force in African football under the leadership of coach Benni McCarthy.
Despite Kenya’s painful elimination from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the quarter-final stage after a penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar, Muchiri believes the tournament has provided vital lessons and renewed belief for both players and fans.
According to the Ulinzi Stars attacker, the performance of the local-based squad at CHAN showed that Kenya has the quality to compete at the highest level. Playing in front of sold-out crowds and pushing established sides to the limit gave players confidence and reassured supporters that the national team is on the right track.
“This tournament has been an eye-opener. The local players have shown they can rise to the occasion, and this has raised confidence across the squad. Fans also believe in us again, which is a huge step forward,” Muchiri noted after the match.
Muchiri credited Benni McCarthy for instilling a new sense of belief in the squad. He explained that the South African coach emphasizes enjoyment of the game and encourages players to express themselves without pressure. This approach, Muchiri said, has allowed the team to perform with freedom and resilience.
“Coach McCarthy always tells us to go out and enjoy football, and that mindset has helped us give our very best. He has brought confidence to the team, and fans can already see the difference,” Muchiri added.
The forward believes that once McCarthy combines the talents of foreign-based players with the best from the local league, Harambee Stars will be even stronger. He is confident that with time, the coach will build a side capable of competing not only at the Africa Cup of Nations but also on the world stage.
“The next step is to give the coach time. With both foreign and local-based players, we will have a balanced team that can make fans proud. We have the right man in charge, and it is only a matter of time before Kenya qualifies for AFCON and the World Cup,” Muchiri said.
Harambee Stars will shift focus to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they face The Gambia and Seychelles in Nairobi next month.
