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Benni McCarthy faces a herculean task to ready Harambee Stars for AFCON 2027 but can he blend youth and experience?
Benni McCarthy got a real first taste of what it means to coach a national team in March.
The South African, one of Bafana Bafana's iconic and most decorated player of all time, beat a host of contestants for the vacant Harambee Stars coaching role following his formal unveiling on March 3.
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Less than three weeks later, McCarthy led Harambee Stars to a 3-3 draw against Gambia and the 2-1 loss over Pierre-Emerik Aubameyang-inspired Gabon, marking a mixed start to his managerial career.
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The pair of results dented Harambee Stars hope of making it to the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by Mexico, USA and Canada, although the Stars stand only a mathematical chance.
This has prompted attention to turn to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations where Kenya is one of the hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
AFCON 2027 rebuild
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Although the three nations are set to co-host CHAN later in the year, AFCON stands as the realistic opportunity for McCarthy to unleash his charges against the creme dela creme of Africa's premier competition.
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AFCON provides for inclusivity of all the players as opposed to CHAN that banks only on players plying trade in local leagues.
This presents the former Manchester United assistant coach the chance to thoroughly do his scouting and present a formidable team for 2027 AFCON, two years from now.
Incorporating young players
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The former Blackburn Rovers and West Ham striker appears keen on giving younger players a platform while retaining key senior figures like captain Michael Olunga and energetic midfielder Anthony Akumu, whose roles in the side have come under thorough scrutiny lately from a section of disgruntled stakeholders and fans alike.
Marcelo Ouma and Ronney Onyango are key figures in McCarthy's rebuilding process, while Richard Odada looks a shoe in for a slot in the middle of the pack.
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McCarthy’s squad should feature several exciting young prospects, including Edward Omondi, Ben Stanley, Kelly Madada, and Andreas Odhiambo. Australian-born midfielder William Lenkupae has also been included, adding further depth to the midfield options.
One of the standout players of the March qualifiers, Mohammed Bajaber is a sure bet for 2027 AFCON now that his budding career is on the ascendancy at Kenya Police.
The likes of Tusker goal poacher Ryan Ogam and abroad-based Jonah Ayunga will likely fight for a starting role with the hope of dislodging Olunga as Stars de facto no. 9.
A host of Gor Mahia and Tusker players will have a realistic chance to impress Benni McCarthy after missing the March qualifiers. Creative lynchpin Austin Odhiambo will be a priceless asset to the Stars should he remain fit after struggling with a nagging injury this season.
Players in the tail-end of their careers are likely to miss out 2027 AFCON, with Brian Mandela a prime example if his benching against Gabon after insipid display against Gambia was any barometer.
While the future looks bright for McCarthy and the Stars it's worth noting that rebuilding a team doesn't happen overnight since change is gradual.
Harambee Stars is set for exciting times backed by their adoring fans who, on evidence, filled the 30,000-seater Nyayo Stadium to watch Kenya vs Gabon.
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