‘A Process in The Right Direction’ - Veteran Coach on Why Senegal Mauling is Good for Harambee Stars
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While a section of Kenyans are questioning why Harambee Stars chose to play Senegal in a friendly match, a veteran coach believes it was one of the best decisions.
Harambee Stars were handed a footballing lesson by the Teranga Lions, who beat them 8-0 in Turkey on Tuesday, with six of the eight goals netted in the first half.
Kenya had no answer for the star-studded Senegal squad that had some of the world’s best players such as Sadio Mane, who netted a hat-trick on the day.
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It was an embarrassing result and one of the worst in Kenya’s history which left fans disappointed with head coach Benni McCarthy’s selection and tactics but Mara Sugar boss Edward Manoah says these are exactly the kind of matches Kenya should be playing.
Manoah feels Harambee Stars need to be tested to the limit by some of Africa’s best teams if they aspire to reach such levels as there are no shortcuts to success.
Manoah on Importance of High-Profile Friendlies
“Kenya vs Senegal was a test match and a process in the right direction,” Manoah told Mozzart Sport. “This process will be tough, ruthless and painful because we aspire to sit at the same table with Africa’s big boys,” he added, emphasizing the need to be patient with the national team.
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“These are the kinds of games we should be playing every international break if we are serious about preparing for AFCON 2027,” the former Chemelil Sugar coach further said.
With Football Kenya Federation boss Hussein Mohammed admitting the result was a rude awakening and promising to ensure Kenya gets on track, Manoah wants them to continue sourcing for high-profile friendlies that will give McCarthy’s team a true reflection of where they are.
“We belong to the big stage. At times we have been cowardly, failing to take the bold step to play top teams,” he said. “Keeping to this script will build belief and desire in the country again, and help us earn our deserved seat at the big table.”
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Harambee Stars have until March 2026 before they play their next friendly matches and Kenyans will be waiting to see who they face at the time.