McCarthy Explains Why Centre-Back Amos Wanjala Played in Midfield Against South Africa
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has revealed that injuries and the absence of several experienced midfielders forced him to deploy young defender Amos Wanjala in the defensive midfield position during Kenya’s 2-2 draw against South Africa.
Kenya faced Bafana Bafana in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Orlando Stadium on Friday, November 13, with Wanjala playing in an unfamiliar role as the team dealt with several midfield setbacks.
McCarthy disclosed that Richard Odada, Duke Abuya, Manzur Okwaro and Timothy Ouma were unavailable, leaving him with limited options in the middle of the park.
The coach explained that the situation forced him to adjust his formation and move Wanjala from his usual centre-back position into the defensive midfield role, commonly known as the number six position.
“We missed experienced players in midfield where we missed Richard Odada through a long-term injury, same to Duke Abuya, Manzur Okwaro and Timothy Ouma who missed, and that made it difficult for us,” McCarthy said.
He added that the tactical adjustment was necessary to provide enough numbers against a dangerous South African side, praising Wanjala for adapting to the unfamiliar responsibility.
McCarthy also defended the young defender following his early own goal, saying he was impressed by how he recovered mentally and continued contributing to the team.
“I am proud of him and how he recollected himself after the early own goal setback. On Tuesday, he will slot back into his usual defensive line,” the coach stated.
Wanjala’s own goal gave South Africa an early advantage before captain Michael Olunga equalised from the penalty spot. Relebohile Mofokeng restored Bafana Bafana’s lead in the second half, but substitute Ryan Ogam scored a late equaliser to secure Kenya a 2-2 draw.
The two sides are scheduled to meet again on Tuesday, November 17, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, where McCarthy will be hoping to build on the team’s fighting performance in Johannesburg.
