KIGALI, Rwanda – If there were any doubts about the direction Harambee Stars are headed under Benni McCarthy, yesterday’s performance at the Amahoro Stadium surely silenced them. Kenya wrapped up their 2026 FIFA Series campaign with a dominant 3-0 victory over Grenada, proving that the narrow penalty heartbreak against Estonia last Friday was nothing more than a minor speed bump.
Clinical and Calm: The Stars in Control
From the first whistle, the Stars looked like a team with a point to prove. It didn’t take long for the pressure to pay off. In the 6th minute, Austine Odhiambo showed exactly why he’s become a mainstay in this squad, pouncing on a parried ball to slot home the opener.
While the “Spice Boys” of Grenada tried to claw their way back, the Kenyan defense—anchored by a disciplined midfield—barely broke a sweat. The second half saw the introduction of fresh legs that completely put the game to bed:
• Ryan Ogam’s Hot Streak: The man is officially on fire. Ogam netted his second goal of the tournament (and his 8th for the national team), showing the kind of predatory instinct that has Kenyan fans dreaming of World Cup qualification.
• The Obiero Impact: Young Zech Obiero, coming off the bench, forced a third goal late in the game. His powerful strike took a deflection off Vijay Valcin for an own goal, but the intent and build-up play were all Kenyan.
A Massive Weekend for Kenyan Sports
It wasn’t just the footballers celebrating yesterday. The win in Kigali capped off a stellar weekend for the country’s sports scene. While the Harambee Stars were securing 3rd place in Rwanda, our Shujaa heroes were busy in Sao Paulo, Brazil, sealing their qualification back to the World Championship Series.
“This victory is for the fans back home,” coach Benni McCarthy said after the match. “We wanted to finish this break on a high note, and the boys delivered exactly what I asked for—aggression, clinical finishing, and a clean sheet.”
What’s Next?
The 3-0 win isn’t just about morale; it’s a vital boost for Kenya’s FIFA World Ranking (currently 112th). With the qualifiers looming, this version of Harambee Stars looks younger, faster, and—most importantly—more lethal in front of goal.
If this is the “Benni Effect,” then sign us up for the long haul.
