Radio host Fred Arocho has taken issue with Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy following Kenya’s 3-1 loss to Gambia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. The match was played on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Kasarani Stadium, ending Kenya’s hopes of securing a World Cup slot.
On his TV 47 show, Arocho supported McCarthy’s decision to call up foreign-based players for the tie, noting that their inclusion was justified after the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) performances. However, he strongly disagreed with McCarthy’s public criticism of the defenders who featured in CHAN.
According to Arocho, the coach should not have said Kenya would have conceded more goals if the CHAN defenders had been fielded against Gambia. He argued that such comments put individual players in a bad light and risked lowering team morale.
“I will always support Benni with this squad. The team he selected was right. But when he talked about his players, particularly the defenders, I disagree,” Arocho said. “As a coach, you don’t expose your players like that. He should have taken responsibility and avoided negative remarks about individuals.”
Arocho admitted the Harambee Stars underperformed but noted that the team created chances. He added that switching off at crucial moments cost Kenya the match. He expressed hope that the side could regroup and produce a stronger showing in their next qualifier against Seychelles.
The defeat has placed further scrutiny on McCarthy, who is still navigating his early days as Harambee Stars coach. While Arocho recognised his authority in squad selection, he urged the South African to adopt a more protective approach in post-match comments.
The criticism comes days after a viral video suggested tension between the two. The clip appeared to show McCarthy ignoring Arocho during a meeting with the national team staff. Arocho dismissed the claims, saying the video had been heavily edited.
The debate over McCarthy’s handling of his players is likely to continue as Kenya seeks to rebuild after the disappointing loss.
