McCarthy Secures First Victory as Kenya Edges Chad in Thrilling Friendly

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO – A collective sigh of relief swept through the Kenyan camp as Harambee Stars finally handed coach Benni McCarthy his first victory, grinding out a 2-1 win against a resilient Chad side in a tense international friendly on Tuesday evening. The victory, staged at the Marrakech Stadium, marks a crucial milestone for the South African tactician, who had pointedly demanded more from his squad.

McCarthy's pre-match challenge for his players to shed their domestic league mindset and embrace the international stage was answered emphatically in a dominant first-half display. FC Talanta's marksman, Emmanuel Osoro, continued his blistering form, breaking the deadlock in the 18th minute. After tormenting the Chadian defense, he coolly slotted home a low cross from the right flank.

FT

Kenya 🇰🇪 2-1 🇹🇩 Chad#HarambeeStars pic.twitter.com/k26nGIl7gW

— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) June 10, 2025

Just before the halftime whistle, Osoro turned creator, delivering a perfect ball for Bandari forward David Sakwa to head home, giving Kenya a commanding 2-0 lead.

However, a game that seemed comfortably in hand took a nervy turn after the break. A lapse in concentration in the Kenyan backline allowed Chad to pull one back shortly after the hour mark, with defender Ali Mahamat Adam capitalizing on a long ball to beat the keeper. The goal injected life into the 177th-ranked Chadians, who pressed hard in the final quarter, testing Kenya's resolve with direct, long-ball tactics.

Despite the shaky finish, the result provides a much-needed boost for McCarthy and his locally-based squad as they prepare for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN). The win brings McCarthy's record to one win, two draws, and one loss in his first four matches at the helm.