AFCON 2027: Benni McCarthy faces a defining test as Kenya head to South Africa

The Harambee Stars have arrived at a crucial stage of their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but their trip to South Africa carries significance beyond the result.

Kenya's Harambee Stars have departed for South Africa ahead of their clash with Bafana Bafana on Friday, November 13, at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.

The first leg of the double-header will see head coach Benni McCarthy lead Kenya against his home country, where he remains a celebrated football figure.

McCarthy faces an emotional test against his home country

McCarthy is South Africa's all-time leading goalscorer with 31 goals, but his immediate priority is helping Kenya secure a positive result.

The former Bafana Bafana striker faces the unusual challenge of trying to defeat his own country, with pressure from Kenyan supporters to deliver results.

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Kenya have already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania. However, their campaign has produced just one point from two matches, following a 1-1 draw with Eritrea and a 1-0 defeat to Guinea.

Harambee Stars seek a statement result in Johannesburg

Kenya will also be looking to overcome their difficult record against South Africa and make a statement ahead of the return fixture in Nairobi.

McCarthy has named a 24-man squad featuring attacking options such as captain Michael Olunga, Job Ochieng and Ryan Ogam. However, the absence of defender Joseph Okumu from the travelling squad is a setback for the Kenyan defence.

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