The 36th Africa Cup of Nations will be historically co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from June 19 to July 18, marking the first tri-nation arrangement and a return to the CECAFA region after fifty years. Automatically qualifying as hosts, Kenya enters the twenty-four-team battle currently dominated by champions Senegal.
Head coach Benni McCarthy, appointed in March 2025 to replace Engin Firat, faces his second major test after overseeing the CHAN rehearsal. The South African tactician is prioritizing progression to the knockout phase but fears the potential draw. Speaking to Creamer Media TV, the former Manchester United assistant emphasized the necessity of avoiding a “Group of Death” against powerhouses like Morocco or Ivory Coast.
McCarthy candidly admitted that facing such superior quality would destroy their chances, whereas a modest group would allow the Harambee Stars to replicate their CHAN impact and secure a fighting chance at advancement on home soil.