McCarthy names Harambee Stars' best player from FIFA Series
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 31.03.26. | 19:12
His composure at the back, ability to read the game, and dominance in aerial duels stood out across both matches
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has singled out defender Frank Odhiambo as his most outstanding player from the recently concluded FIFA Series held in Kigali, Rwanda.
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Kenya wrapped up the mini-tournament in third place following a convincing 3-0 win over Grenada in the playoff, bouncing back from a semifinal defeat to Estonia.
Despite the positive finish, McCarthy’s biggest takeaway was the emergence of Odhiambo, whose assured performances have quickly elevated him in the national team setup.
The Gor Mahia defender, who was making his Harambee Stars debut at the tournament, featured prominently in Kenya’s 1-1 draw against Estonia and retained his place in the starting XI for the clash against Grenada.
His composure at the back, ability to read the game, and dominance in aerial duels stood out across both matches.
McCarthy did not hold back in his praise.
“I’ve been very happy with the debutants. Frank has been outstanding. Wow. He’s probably been my best player over the two games,” said the tactician.
Odhiambo’s rise marks a significant turnaround in his career. After signing for Swedish side Djurgården in 2022, he struggled for consistent game time and was sent out on multiple loan spells, including stints at IFK Haninge, Vasalunds IF, AFC Eskilstuna, and IF Karlstad.
His return to Gor Mahia during the midseason transfer window has, however, reignited his form, playing a key role in the club’s title push and catching the national team coach’s eye.
His emergence now adds competition within Kenya’s defensive ranks. Established names such as Sylvester Owino, whose injury opened the door for Odhiambo, alongside the injured Joseph Okumu, Mike Kibwage and Alphonce Omija, will now have to fight to retain their places.
While pleased with the team’s overall showing, McCarthy admitted there are still areas that require improvement, particularly in front of goal.
“Happy that we were able to convert a couple of chances that we created and deservedly won the game. But there’s still a cloud hanging over my head,” he said.
“If you assess us, we created 11 clear-cut chances. That’s a little bit of a worry that we’re not able to finish games off when we have those opportunities. The next team, you’re not going to be as lucky,” he observed.
The South African gaffer also pointed to the positives from his new-look squad, highlighting the impact of other debutants such as Zech Obiero and Clarke Oduor, whose technical quality and attacking intent added a new dimension to the team.
“Zech Obiero is a very positive, bright player; very offensive, running at players, and making things happen. That’s what we need,” McCarthy noted.
Looking ahead, the coach is optimistic about the team’s trajectory, especially with the expected return of key players like Daniel Anyembe and Jonathan Okumu from injury.
He believes blending experienced internationals with emerging talents like Odhiambo could be key as Kenya builds towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“It gives me only positive vibes. When you get your big players back, it gives you quality options. Kenya has got a lot to look forward to,” he added.