Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy wants his players to put the problems that disrupted their preparations behind them and focus on Eritrea.
Kenya face Eritrea at Nyayo Stadium on Saturday in their first 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
The players only returned to training on Friday after a dispute over unpaid allowances was resolved. It was their first collective session ahead of the match.
That left McCarthy with little time to prepare his team.
The South African coach admitted the situation was far from ideal but said the players must now focus on the game.
“Of course, it’s not ideal how you want to prepare for a qualifier match, but it is what it is. I think tomorrow we’ll just go out there, be professional and play to our strengths,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy studies Eritrea
McCarthy does not expect fitness to cause major problems for most of his players.
Several of the Kenya-based players have been playing regularly for their clubs. The same applies to a number of those based abroad.
The coach has also studied Eritrea’s recent matches as he prepares for the game.
He has used footage and scouting data from their matches, including their meeting with Botswana.
McCarthy expects Eritrea to play rather than rely only on their physical strength.
“They’re a footballing team. They want to play football,” he said.
The coach added that Eritrea are not among the biggest or most physical teams, but warned that Kenya must still deal with their qualities.
Olunga misses Eritrea match
Kenya will not have captain Michael Olunga for the match.
The striker experienced stiffness after returning from a lengthy injury layoff. McCarthy said a scan showed minor strains.
Olunga had been building his fitness through substitute appearances before starting his first match since the injury on Monday.
McCarthy decided not to risk another setback.
The coach said another injury could keep Olunga out for a longer period. He therefore wants the striker to continue his recovery and rehabilitation with his current club.
Kenya begin Group D campaign
Harambee Stars now turn their attention to Eritrea after the difficult week in camp.
Kenya are already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON finals as co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The qualifiers will nevertheless give McCarthy competitive matches to assess his squad before the tournament.
Kenya were drawn in Group D alongside Eritrea, South Africa and Guinea.
Saturday’s match at Nyayo will be McCarthy’s first competitive test in the campaign.
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