New Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has hit the ground running just a few hours after he was appointed to his new position.

McCarthy was handed a two-year contract which will see him take charge of the men's national team until after the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations to be held on home soil.

The South African international wasted no time in familiarising himself with the local game. On Wednesday afternoon, he was spotted at the Dandora Stadium in Nairobi for a FKF Premier League match.

The former Amazulu manager had a front row seat as Gor Mahia beat Kariobangi Sharks 3-1 to firmly put themselves back into the title race conversation. McCarthy was flanked by Francis Kimanzi, who was the interim coach before his arrival. Also present was FKF Deputy President McDonald Mariga.

Fortune Omoto gave Sharks the lead in the 26th minute, but it was all Gor Mahia after that, with Alpha Onyango restoring parity in stoppage time.

Reigning league MVP Austine Odhiambo showed the new head coach his class in the second-half, scoring a beautiful free-kick to give K'Ogalo the lead for the first time. He then scored from the spot to create a buffer for the Green Army.

Odhiambo is certainly likely to be one of the players who will feature heavily under McCarthy. He earned his national debut under former coach Engin Firat but the Turkish tactician didn't give him as much minutes as fans wanted.

The 47-year-old will soon name his first squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers away to The Gambia and at home to Gabon.

"Playing in the World Cup is one of the most special feelings in the world, and I want to give that experience to the players. With the right mindset, dedication, and a willingness to learn and give everything for the cause, I believe we can still surprise many by qualifying for the World Cup," he said after his unveiling ceremony.

Kenya is fourth in Group with five points from four games.

The win over Sharks took Sinisa Mihic's boys to 39 points, two behind Tusker FC and three behind leaders Kenya Police. Gor have however played a game less than the first two, opening up the prospect of a three-horse race as the season enters its business stage.

Source: TUKO.co.ke