Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has defended his team amid their winless streak.

In an interview featured on a local TV station on June 10, 2025, McCarthy urged supporters to understand the process of building a competitive side. The former Manchester United first team coach also called for patience from Kenyan football fans and the media after the team’s winless run stretched to three matches.

“You guys have to understand; the media and the fans have to understand that Rome wasn’t built in one day; you cannot just come in and make magic,” he emphasised.

He addressed the unrealistic expectations from Kenyans for instant results after the team went three matches without a win in Marrakech Stadium in an international friendly match with Chad.

He acknowledged the pressure but insisted that immediate success is not feasible, stating, “You’re not going to just come in there, and then I make magic… Then you’ll have a castle, no?”

This reflected his stance on the need for patience and development.

McCarthy, a former South African striker, was appointed head coach in March 2025 with a two-year deal aimed at qualifying Kenya for the 2026 World Cup, a milestone the country has never achieved despite his own participation in the 1998 and 2002 World Cups.

He explained the challenges of transitioning players from club level to international play, noting, “I’m not going to have just a magic wand, and I’ve got the perfect squad. I need to get to know these players.”

He added, “I have to see their qualities. I have what they are capable of at an international level because they aren’t playing for Leopards, Tusker, or Gor Mahia. They are playing now for Kenya, the national team.”

The coach highlighted the difference in playing for the national team compared to club teams, describing it as “a different kettle of fish when you come here.”

He expressed his intent to build the team gradually, saying, “So yeah, we’re trying to build, so I want to see the levels of players, and I want to see which other players I’m going to move forward with when we come to Chan.”

The gaffer’s statement underscored his strategy of evaluating players and developing the team over time, rather than expecting immediate success. The historical context of Kenya’s football, including a 2004 FIFA suspension due to government interference, further illustrates the challenges McCarthy faces in his role.

Despite these hurdles, McCarthy remains resolute, emphasising that his priority is to create a cohesive unit capable of competing beyond just the qualifiers.

“It’s not only about the World Cup,” he added. “We’re also looking ahead to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and building a strong foundation.”

Kenya’s current position in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers leaves the team in a precarious spot, with pressure mounting as upcoming fixtures, including friendlies against Chad, loom large. McCarthy’s insistence on gradual improvement underscores his belief that success will take time and that the team must develop chemistry and a winning mentality.

As the team regroups and looks ahead, McCarthy’s call for calm and unity resonates as Kenya continues its uphill battle in the World Cup qualifiers.