The Harambee Stars edge Burundi 1–0 in a tough World Cup qualifier as Ryan Ogam’s goal and McCarthy’s new coaching milestone make headlines. Benni McCarthy Kenya world record victory against Burundi Benni McCarthy could not hide his joy after guiding Kenya to another memorable victory. The Harambee Stars battled to a 1–0 win over Burundi in a tense World Cup qualifier on Thursday. The match was played at the packed Intawari Stadium in Bujumbura under harsh weather conditions. Kenya’s star forward Ryan Ogam scored the only goal of the game with a thunderous strike. His effort came in the 67th minute after being set up perfectly by captain Michael Olunga.
The victory not only boosted Kenya’s pride but also marked a world coaching record for McCarthy. He became the first African coach to win 15 consecutive competitive away games across national and club football. McCarthy praised his players for their resilience, discipline, and courage in a very physical match. He admitted the game was one of the toughest he had faced as Kenya’s head coach. “Today was a really hard game,” McCarthy said proudly after the final whistle. “The pitch was not great, and we lost our goalkeeper early, but the boys stayed strong.” He added that his team handled the conditions and Burundi’s aggression with impressive calmness. “My players showed real heart and respected the game even when things got rough,” he said.
The South African tactician, however, criticized the level of physical play from their opponents. “In better conditions, we would have played even better football,” he continued firmly. “Burundi are a strong team, but today’s match was more of a battle than real football.” Despite his complaints, McCarthy smiled as he called the result a fair reflection of effort.“Justice was served,” he said. “We worked hard, stayed organized, and earned the three points.”
Kenya’s captain Michael Olunga also spoke about the intense nature of the contest. He assisted the winning goal and was constantly marked tightly by Burundi defenders throughout the game. “It was not easy out there,” Olunga said, drenched in sweat but smiling after the match. “The pitch was rough, the heat was heavy, and they played very physically,” he explained.“But we stayed focused and did not lose our temper or rhythm. Olunga praised young striker Ryan Ogam for his brilliant finish that sealed the victory. “That goal was special,” he said.
“Ryan took his chance perfectly, and it made the difference.” He added that such wins show how much the Harambee Stars have matured under McCarthy’s guidance. “This team has grown,” the captain noted. “We play with more discipline and unity now.” He said the group’s success comes from hard work and belief in the system McCarthy brought. The match was full of drama and tension from the start to the final whistle. Kenya’s goalkeeper, Patrick Matasi, was injured in the first half and replaced by Ian Otieno. Burundi pushed forward with energy, but Kenya’s defense stood firm under constant pressure. The home fans grew louder, urging their team to equalize, but the Stars held their ground. Every tackle, header, and save showed Kenya’s determination to bring the points back home.
When the final whistle blew, McCarthy and his players celebrated with pure emotion. For them, it was more than just another win; it was proof of progress and purpose. Burundi’s coach Patrick Sangwa accepted the defeat but remained proud of his team’s effort. “My players gave everything they had,” Sangwa said after the match. “We fought hard but missed chances.” He admitted that Kenya’s experience and structure made the difference in the end. “We wanted to win at home, but it just wasn’t our day,” he added with a shrug. With this result, Kenya now sits third in Group F with 12 points after nine matches. Even though qualification for the 2026 World Cup is no longer possible, pride remains high.
McCarthy’s men have shown major improvement in their performances throughout the qualifiers. Their balance between attack and defense has earned praise from both fans and football analysts. The Harambee Stars will end their campaign against Ivory Coast on Tuesday, October 14. McCarthy has already set his sights on finishing strong and preparing for the 2027 AFCON. He believes the team’s new mindset and confidence will help them compete with Africa’s best. “This is not the end, but the beginning of something great,” McCarthy told reporters. “We have built a foundation, and the boys now believe in themselves.”
Kenya’s win against Burundi was more than just three points it was a statement of intent. It showed that with the right leadership, the Harambee Stars can challenge any African side. McCarthy’s new world record only adds to his growing legacy as one of Africa’s top coaches. For Kenyan football, Thursday night will be remembered as a turning point of belief and pride. As the celebrations continue, one thing is clear this is a team on the rise. And under Benni McCarthy’s fearless leadership, the world is beginning to take notice.
