Harambee Stars Coach Benni McCarthy Reveals Why He Prefers Goal Fests Over Defensive Solidity
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has recently made a revelation that should give Kenyans insight into what to expect from future matches.
The South African tactician, known for his attacking brand of football, sticks by that philosophy despite the resources and talent at his disposal.
That has been evident in his matches in charge so far for the Harambee Stars, and it is bound to continue that way.
Benni McCarthy's Attacking Philosophy
In a recent interview with CGTN Africa, McCarthy revealed why he prefers open, attacking matches that result in goal fests rather than low-scoring matches with defensive solidity.
The tactician pointed out that entertainment was a big factor in his attacking philosophy.
When asked whether he would prefer a 5-4 score-line or 1-0, McCarthy stated, "5-4 because it gives the fans some goal fest, some entertainment."
"1-0 seems just a little bit of a bore, so lots of entertainment," he noted.
Benni McCarthy's Influence on the Harambee Stars
The Harambee Stars tactician's attacking philosophy has already been seen in effect with his first two matches in charge against Gambia and Gabon during the March international break.
The 2026 World Cup Qualifiers fixture, especially against Gambia, was a thrilling goal fest.
Kenya came back from behind twice in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Harambee Stars match against Gabon, while not as high-scoring, saw Kenya give a good account of themselves on the attacking front with multiple chances but failed to convert them, resulting in a 2-1 loss.
These fixtures offer Kenyans a glimpse into the brand of football to expect from McCarthy's Harambee Stars, with major continental showpieces like the rescheduled 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on the horizon and the later 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).