Competing in their third CHAN match before a packed audience, Kenya delivered a remarkable result against the two-time champions, even while playing the entire second half with only 10 players. After Ryam Ogam gave Harambee Stars the lead in the 42nd minute, they had to defend that advantage with incredible determination after Chrispine Eramboreceived a red card—upgraded by VAR during first-half stoppage time—leaving the East African side with 10 men.
Erambo, who plays locally for Tusker FC and was one of the new players given starting positions by McCarthy, was initially cautioned for a foul on Anas El Mahraoui, but VAR later escalated the foul to a straight red card.
Nevertheless, despite the dismissal, Kenya overcame the challenges to end Morocco’s unbeaten CHAN streak and take the lead in Group A. Goalkeeper Bryne Omondi made outstanding saves to thwart Morocco, who had started with a 2-0 win over Angola and came into the match on a 14-match unbeaten CHAN streak, earning him the man of the match title at the final whistle.
This was the second occasion Kenya played with 10 men at CHAN under McCarthy. In their match against Angola, Kenya's midfielder Marvin Nabwire was sent off shortly after Austin Odhiambo converted a penalty to equalize after Jo Paciencia's opener for the Palancas Negras.
“I learned the skills and strategies while working with Mourinho”
The former Bafana Bafana forward played for Porto under Mourinho from 2003 to 2006, scoring 46 goals in 85 appearances. He won the Golden Boot award for the 2003-04 Primeira Liga season (with 20 goals in 23 matches) on the season's final matchday with a hat-trick and played a key role in Porto's successful run in the 2003-04 UEFA Champions League.
McCarthy netted two goals against Manchester United to eliminate them in the second round. He stated that playing under the Portuguese coach taught him how to manage tough situations when a team is down to 10 players.
“I’m not sure if you recall, I played under a certain coach, José Mourinho was the expert at that,” McCarthy told reporters post-match. “As a player in a team that operates with 10 men, I assure you, it's challenging. It’s tough, but we used to handle it as if it were routine.
“You know, it felt like we were a team that functioned with 10 instead of 11. So I’ve absorbed the skills and tactics of working with Mourinho, where adjustments are made, and decisions on sacrifices are taken.
“And unfortunately, it won’t be appealing for the fans because they desire to see offensive football. But then you must consider what is most crucial to safeguard your goals. If you’re in the lead, you defend it at all costs.”
He concluded: “At times, defenders must take on roles typically held by midfielders or forwards, and that is the skill I’ve acquired while playing under José.”
The victory placed Kenya on the brink of a historic quarter-final spot, while Morocco’s chances of progressing now hinge on bouncing back in their last two group matches against Zambia and DR Congo.
Links
Contact
App
