Bafana Bafana’s all-time top goal scorer, Benni McCarthy, has reacted to being named the Coach of the Month for August 2025 in Kenya.
The Sports Journalists Association of Kenya [SJAK] voted McCarthy as the Coach of the Month award for August, acknowledging his effective leadership of the Kenya National Team in the 2025 African Nations Championship [CHAN]. The event took place on Tuesday, 2 September, in Kenya.
McCarthy’s tactical brilliance and leadership were the driving force behind the Harambee Stars’ impressive run in the 2025 CHAN tournament. The competition, which Kenya co-hosted with Tanzania and Uganda, saw the team reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1987.
In a thrilling quarter-final match, Kenya drew 1-1 with Madagascar before being knocked out in a heartbreaking 4-3 penalty shootout. This marked a historic moment for the Harambee Stars, as it was their best performance in a continental tournament since the Fourth All-Africa Games in 1987, where they lost to Egypt in the final.
Ultimately, Morocco took home the 2025 CHAN trophy after a 3-2 victory over Madagascar in the final on August 30.
BENNI MCCARTHY ON WINNING HIS FIRST INDIVIDUAL AWARD IN KENYA
The former Manchester United striker’s coach expressed his gratitude for being honoured with the Coach of the Month award. He cited collective work as the reason for Kenya’s success.
“So grateful to be awarded Coach of the Month. Harambee Stars, thanks to my technical team and players for all their hard work,” said McCarthy.
“A special thanks to the fans for all the support they give us.”
McCarthy’s charges will now turn their attention to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Kenya will face Gambia on Friday, September 5, followed by a game with Seychelles four days later.
Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the global tournament are slim. With just six points from six matches, the team sits in fourth place in Group F, only ahead of Gambia. They are currently 10 points behind group leaders Ivory Coast.
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