McCarthy targets strong start as Harambee Stars eye knockout spot against Morocco

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has urged his players to harness the momentum from their spirited display against Angola as they prepare for a decisive Group A clash with Morocco at the Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

Kenya heads into the fixture with four points from two matches, knowing that even a draw will secure them a place in the knockout stages of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Morocco, however, arrived buoyed by a week’s rest and a commanding 2-0 win over Angola.

Speaking at Saturday’s pre-match press conference, McCarthy admitted the quick turnaround from Thursday night’s gruelling draw with Angola had been physically and mentally taxing on his squad.

“When you play on Thursday and then have to go again two days later, it’s like another marathon,” he said. “We’re recovering the players as best as we can. Morocco is very tough, organised and disciplined, probably the strongest team in our group and even in the competition.”

The former South Africa international revealed that fatigue had forced the team into a light recovery session on Friday, with their first proper training since the Angola game taking place on Saturday. He hinted at possible changes to freshen up the side, acknowledging the effort players had put in over two intense matches.

McCarthy stressed the importance of starting fast after a question raised by The Eastleigh Voice regarding the slow pickup of the team for the previous games, warning that a sluggish opening could prove costly.

“Against Angola, we found ourselves a goal and a man down because of a slow start. Against a team like Morocco, you pay a hefty price for that. I’ll be drilling into the players that we shouldn’t give ourselves a mountain to climb.”

He also recognised the challenge of guiding a squad where the majority are experiencing a major tournament for the first time.

“Almost 90% of these players are new to this stage. The atmosphere can get to you, but as we’ve played, they’ve grown in confidence. Tomorrow’s game is a huge opportunity for them to show their quality and open doors to higher levels.”

McCarthy described Morocco as unpredictable but beatable with discipline and organisation.

“They have a competitive league and quality players, but even the best teams struggle when you stick to your tactics and stay organised. That’s what we’re aiming for tomorrow to make it difficult for them and give ourselves the best chance of a positive result.”

Kick-off is set for 3:00 pm, with the hosts determined to turn home support into a ticket to the quarter-finals.