Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has confirmed that he will sing the South African national anthem when Kenya face Bafana Bafana in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Friday.
The South African-born tactician, who turned 49 on Thursday, will return to his home country in a different capacity, having previously represented Bafana Bafana with distinction and remains their all-time leading goalscorer with 31 goals.
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The match will be played at Orlando Amstel Arena, a venue where McCarthy featured during the latter stages of his playing career with Orlando Pirates.
Speaking to iDiski Times journalist Matshelana Mamabolo, McCarthy said his connection to South Africa remained strong despite his current responsibility with Kenya.
“I’m still a South African, and I have done a great deal for my country when it comes to football, so I will sing my national anthem,” he said.
However, the former UEFA Champions League winner insists that his professional responsibilities will take priority once the match gets underway.
McCarthy acknowledged the emotional significance of facing his country of birth but maintained that his focus would be firmly on securing a positive result for Harambee Stars.
“Eish, facing Bafana ain’t no easy task and all the emotions that come with it. It’s a mixed emotion feeling, to be honest. It’s my country and my first love that makes it ever so hard.
“But my professional duty is to the team and country I manage, so all the emotions go out the window. We will do our very best to maintain the utmost professionalism and give a good account of ourselves,” he added.
McCarthy also acknowledged the quality of South Africa, praising head coach Pitso Mosimane, whom he described as a respected coach and friend, while admitting that beating Bafana would be a difficult assignment.
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