Benni McCarthy had a special reason to smile as his daughter, Lima Rose McCarthy, celebrated his birthday with a touching message just days before Kenya faces South Africa in a much-anticipated football encounter. The young woman took to Instagram on November 12, 2026, to honour her father, sharing a warm tribute that attracted attention from football fans.

Lima Rose's birthday message offered a glimpse into the close relationship she shares with the Harambee Stars head coach. She celebrated him with loving words, expressing her appreciation and wishing him a blessed year ahead. The simple but meaningful gesture came at a time when her father is preparing for one of the most closely watched matches of his coaching career.

The timing has made the birthday celebration even more interesting. McCarthy, who made his name as a South African football star, is now in charge of Kenya's national team and preparing to face the country where he built much of his football legacy. The upcoming meeting between Harambee Stars and Bafana Bafana is therefore expected to attract considerable attention.

McCarthy remains one of South Africa's most respected football figures. During his playing career, he represented several prominent European clubs, including Porto, Blackburn Rovers and West Ham United. One of his greatest achievements came in 2004 when he was part of the Porto team that won the UEFA Champions League under manager Jose Mourinho.

After retiring from professional football, McCarthy turned his attention to coaching. He continued building his experience in the technical side of the game, including a spell as a first-team coach at Manchester United, before taking up the Harambee Stars coaching position.

His appointment generated excitement among Kenyan football supporters, who are hoping his international experience will help strengthen the national team. However, facing South Africa presents a special challenge because of his personal and professional connections to the country.

For Lima Rose, the attention surrounding her father's coaching career did not take away from the importance of his birthday. Her tribute focused on celebrating him as a father rather than his achievements on the football pitch.

As the two national teams prepare for their meeting, McCarthy will be looking to guide Kenya to a positive result against his home country. Meanwhile, his daughter's birthday message has offered supporters a reminder of the family support behind the coach as he takes on this important assignment.

Source

Tuko News.https://www.tuko.co.ke/world/africa/646718-benni-mccarthys-daughter-sends-harambee-stars-coach-beautiful-message-days-bafana-clash/