McCarthy credits Kenya’s sheer athleticism for victory over Morocco

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has attributed Kenya’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Sunday to sheer athleticism.

Speaking after the match, an elated McCarthy hailed his players' physical intensity and mental fortitude, particularly after going down to 10 men at the break.

“I had said to the players that the team that wants this the most is the one that runs the hardest,” McCarthy said in a post-match interview.

“We deserved the win. Morocco had more of the ball, but at the end of the day, the three points were ours.”

Kenya played the entire second half a man down following the dismissal of midfielder Chrispine Erambo just before halftime.

Ryan Ogam, also of Tusker FC, netted the only goal of the match in the 42nd minute — his first international goal — after capitalising on a quick break to give Kenya a crucial lead.

McCarthy was quick to recognise the pivotal role played by the home crowd, crediting the fans for lifting the players through a tense second half.

“Fans in the stadium were incredible,” he said.

“If we did not have that performance from the stands, we would not have survived — not with 11 players, let alone 10. This victory, we owe it to the fans.”

Despite the win, McCarthy acknowledged the team’s imperfections and admitted they are still striving to reach the level of continental heavyweights like Morocco.

“We knew we had to play a completely different ball game — we had to be structured, disciplined, and work as a unit,” he explained.

Commenting on the red card incident, McCarthy said the setback forced his players into a more defensive mindset but praised their tactical organisation.

“When you go down to 10 men at halftime, it becomes difficult. The quality of football you want to play changes. Players focus more on defending than attacking,” he said. “But we were so tactically organised that Morocco didn’t know what to do with the ball.”