Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy has warned South Africa that his side will not make things easy for Bafana Bafana when the two countries meet in their upcoming back-to-back 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

McCarthy, who previously represented South Africa during his playing career, acknowledged that he would always want the best for his home country but insisted that his professional responsibilities would come first when the two sides face each other.

The former Bafana Bafana striker is now tasked with leading Kenya, meaning he will be on the opposite side when the two nations battle for crucial points in the AFCON qualifying campaign.

Speaking ahead of the encounters, McCarthy made it clear that his personal connection with South Africa would not influence his approach to the matches.

"I’d want the very best for my country but I’ll definitely not make it easy for them," McCarthy said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

His comments underline the competitive nature of the upcoming fixtures, with the former Manchester United first-team coach determined to give Kenya a strong chance against his country of birth.

For McCarthy, the challenge will also carry personal significance, considering his history with South African football and his status as one of the country's most recognisable former international players.

However, nostalgia and national connections will have little influence once the two teams step onto the pitch.

South Africa will be looking to secure important results in their qualification campaign, while Kenya will also be determined to make the most of playing against a familiar opponent.

The two matches will provide an interesting coaching battle, particularly with McCarthy having extensive knowledge of South African football and the players representing Bafana Bafana.

Bafana will therefore have to prepare for a Kenya side that will be motivated to compete rather than simply make up the numbers.

McCarthy's message is straightforward: he may want South Africa to succeed, but when it comes to football, his responsibility is to Kenya.

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