Kenya’s Harambee Stars are facing a defense crisis ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Seychelles, following a double setback that has stirred up a debate among fans.
Speaking in a pre-match interview, Coach Benni McCarthy stated that they are very fortunate because none of the players have picked up any injuries, and everyone was ready for the game.
However, the tactician noted that Gor Mahia centre back Alphone Omija, who had been an integral part of the squad, had left the national team camp to finalize his move to a Tunisian club.
“I okayed it because it was an opportunity for him to join a good and decent club in Tunisia, I could see from CHAN what this player did, and it was the right thing for me to do,” McCarthy said, stating that missing medical could have cost him the opportunity.
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The Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia center-back Alphonce Omija is on the brink of completing a lucrative switch to Tunisian giants Etoile Sportive du Sahel, a move deemed by analysts as a significant step in his football career.
At the same time, defender and captain Abud Omar will also not feature in the Harambee Stars Vs Seychelles game set to take place on Tuesday, September 9, evening from 4 pm, at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium, due to suspension.
Omar’s removal from the lineup, as one of the most experienced defenders, has sparked conversations and questions about discipline and leadership within the team.
Coach McCarthy, however, clarified that Omar will miss the match due to the accumulation of yellow cards in previous World Cup qualifier matches.
Kenya is hoping for a bounce back in the game against Seychelles after a 3-1 defeat to Gambia last Friday, a loss that left many Kenyan fans disappointed.
Also Read: 25 Kenyans Fly to Spain for Week-Long Football Training
Earlier, McCarthy warned against lazy players in the team, emphasizing that every position is open for competition among all players.
“If you don’t want to work hard, I will send you back home where you come from. There are many other players who want this opportunity, so the ones who have received this opportunity have to work hard to maintain their place,” the South African said.
He urged the team to not only rely on their talents, stating that “every player is selected for the national team not just on talent because talent gets you through the door and that’s it. That doesn’t get you anywhere. You must have some discipline and talent, yes, but hard work is as important as talent itself.”
The match against Seychelles now carries a symbolic weight. It has provided an opportunity for new faces to step up and start building their careers. McCarthy also has a chance to showcase his tactics and share his experiences with the team.
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