Kevin Okumu has revealed Benni McCarthy’s instructions as he made his Harambee Stars debut against Angola, coming on for Daniel Sakari.
KCB defender Kevin Okumu has opened up about making his Harambee Stars debut against Angola in their second group A match at the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).
Kevin Okumu was a late substitute as Harambee Stars held Angola to a 1-1 draw in the dramatic match that saw the Video Assistant Referee save the day in several instances.
Kevin Okumu had yet to enter the pitch at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, but Benni McCarthy handed him the golden chance on Thursday night, something he does not take for granted.
Kenya and Morocco are set for a decisive CHAN 2024 Group A showdown that could determine the group’s top spot and quarterfinal qualification.
CHAN 2024: Kevin Okumu on Benni McCarthy’s Words as He Replaced Daniel Sakari
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Gor Mahia Shariff Musa (right) tussle with KCB Kevin Okumu during FKF Premier league match between Gor Mahia and Kcb at Dandora Stadium on October 23, 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya.
As he entered the pitch to replace Daniel Sakari, who had given his all in the better part of the match, Kevin Okumu was under no pressure.
He was excited about his debut, noting that it was a sign that his efforts were being seen by Benni McCarthy and all he wanted was to prove a point in the match.
Okumu noted that Benni McCarthy whispered a few nuggets of wisdom to him, words that calmed him and ensured he knew what his role would be in the final minutes of the match.
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The South African gaffer has provided an injury update about his squad, including Masoud Juma and David Sakwa, ahead of their next CHAN 2024 clash against Morocco.
“My debut has been great, I’m so proud that at least my effort is being seen since the coach has given me a chance. It’s not an easy thing because there are many players and everything has happened in God’s timing,” Kevin Okumu said after the match.
“Coach just told me to defend, and then if we can at least get a counterattack, I should use it because I was fresh and was just coming in from the bench.”
Kenya vs Morocco: Kevin Okumu on What Fans Should Expect
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Kenya vs Morocco
Following his debut, Kevin Okumu remains confident that Harambee Stars have all it takes to make a mark against two-time CHAN champions Morocco.
Kevin Okumu noted that the mood in the camp is amazing, and if Harambee Stars can get all three points, then they will be in the safe zone.
“I must admit that everything is going on well at the moment because we are getting the results, and we just have to give our all and see if we can get all three points against Morocco, we shall be okay and already qualified for the quarter final,” Okumu added.
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A tactical look on how Harambee Stars battled adversity against Angola to keep their CHAN 2024 quarterfinal hopes firmly alive.
Harambee Stars are now on top of Group A following their win over DR Congo and their draw against Angola. They face Morocco on Sunday, August 10, and all eyes will be on them to make a mark against one of the greatest African football clubs.
