Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy is expecting a fiercely contested encounter when Harambee Stars face South Africa in their crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Orlando Stadium.

McCarthy will return to the Johannesburg venue on Friday, November 14, 2026, where he previously featured for Orlando Pirates, but this time he will be in the opposing dugout as Kenya’s coach.

The match carries greater significance for South Africa, who need a positive result to maintain their position at the top of the qualifying group and strengthen their chances of securing a place at the continental tournament.

“It is a proud moment because I am still representing my country, even though I am the head coach for the opposition team. I want the best for my country but I am definitely not going to make it easy for them,”  he said ahead of the Friday’s match.

Kenya, meanwhile, have already secured qualification as one of the three hosts of the 2027 Afcon tournament, which will be staged jointly by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Conflicting emotions

The South African who previously coached Amazulu and Cape Town City in the PSL, suggested that facing Bafana will elicit conflicting emotions.

“I have mixed emotions, to be honest, because I am going home to where my roots are, a place I called home once upon a time, Orlando Stadium. I go home to adoring fans that always cheered , always supported, no matter what, and I have always had unbelievable moments in front of them,” he said.

Despite Kenya having already booked their place, McCarthy has made it clear that his team will not simply allow Bafana Bafana to collect points without a fight.

The former South Africa international is also familiar with the expectations surrounding the national team and knows the significance of the fixture for the hosts.

His return to Orlando Stadium adds another layer to an already important encounter, with McCarthy now seeking to frustrate the country he once represented.

South Africa will be looking to take advantage of home support and finish their qualifying campaign strongly, while Kenya will be aiming to demonstrate that their status as tournament hosts does not mean they will approach competitive fixtures without ambition.

The encounter therefore presents a demanding test for both sides, with McCarthy determined to ensure that Bafana Bafana are made to work for every opportunity.