Kenya secured a narrow victory in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Burundi, but the match was far from straightforward. The Harambee Stars faced a Burundi side that was numerically disadvantaged for a significant portion of the game after a very early red card.
Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy is playing a key role in the Kenyan squad's coaching setup, and this win marks another positive step in their World Cup qualification journey. However, the match was marred by controversy when a Burundi striker received a red card almost immediately after the kickoff for a dangerous tackle on a Polokwane City player.
The incident left Burundi playing with ten men for the majority of the match, yet Kenya struggled to capitalise fully. The slim win highlights areas where the Harambee Stars need to improve if they are to seriously contend for a place in the World Cup.
Key Moments of the Match
- Early Red Card: The dismissal of the Burundi striker drastically altered the game's dynamics.
- Kenya's Struggle: Despite the numerical advantage, Kenya found it difficult to break down Burundi's defence.
- Benni McCarthy's Influence: The presence of the South African legend on the coaching staff continues to inspire the team.
What's Next for Kenya?
Kenya will need to build on this win and address their attacking inefficiencies as they continue their World Cup qualifying campaign. The experience and guidance of Benni McCarthy will be crucial in helping the team reach its full potential. Fans are eagerly awaiting their next match, hoping for a more dominant performance.