Kenyan football’s tendency to demand instant results is once again under the spotlight—but the reality on the pitch tells a different story.
The Harambee Stars began their FIFA Series 2026 campaign with a clash against Estonia national football team on March 27 at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda.
While reactions from fans have been mixed, the performance itself showed clear signs of growth under head coach Benni McCarthy.
A Valuable Test Against European Opposition
Facing a European side like Estonia offered Kenya a rare opportunity to measure progress against a different style of football.
The match formed part of a four-team mini-tournament also featuring Rwanda and Grenada, designed to give emerging football nations greater international exposure.
More importantly, it served as a key preparation platform ahead of upcoming continental assignments, including AFCON 2027.
Performance Over Outcome
Even if the result ended in a draw, decided by penalties as per FIFA Series rules, the bigger takeaway was the team’s structure and discipline.
- Under McCarthy, Harambee Stars displayed:
- Improved tactical organization
- Composure in build-up play
Energy and cohesion from a youthful squadPatience Over Pressure: Harambee Stars Show Promise Against Estonia
In FIFA Series matches, drawn games go straight to penalties without extra time, but the official result remains a draw, reinforcing that performances matter beyond shootouts.
A Young Core Worth Building
This current Harambee Stars squad is clearly a long-term project. The blend of young domestic talents and emerging internationals suggests Kenya is building for the future, not just the next match.
- Consistency will be crucial. That means:
- Keeping the core squad together
- Increasing international friendlies
- Allowing time for chemistry and identity to develop
Trust the Process
Criticism at this stage risks disrupting a project that is still taking shape.
The Estonia match was not about perfection, it was about progress.
And based on what was seen, there is every reason to believe that under Benni McCarthy, Kenya is moving in the right direction.
The future of Kenyan football is not instant, but it is promising.
