Kenya head coach Benni McCarthy believes neither side would have felt particularly unfortunate had they emerged victorious after the Harambee Stars played out an entertaining 2-2 draw against Bafana Bafana.

The former Bafana Bafana striker offered a balanced assessment of the encounter, acknowledging that both teams produced encouraging moments throughout the 90 minutes and had opportunities to take control of the contest.

McCarthy, who now leads the Kenyan national team, suggested that the result was a fair reflection of an evenly contested match, with neither side able to establish complete dominance over the other.

“Whoever had won this game, I don’t think people would’ve been angry or said the other was lucky, cause I think over the 90 minutes both teams had their moments,” McCarthy said.

His assessment highlighted the competitive nature of the encounter, which saw the two neighbouring African nations demonstrate their attacking qualities while also exposing areas that will require attention as they continue preparing for future international assignments.

For Bafana Bafana, the draw provided another opportunity to assess their performances against competitive opposition. South Africa will be keen to build on the positives from the match while working on the defensive and attacking details that could make a difference in future fixtures.

Kenya, meanwhile, can take encouragement from their ability to compete against a South African side that has established itself as one of the continent's competitive national teams. McCarthy will also be encouraged by his players' determination to remain in the contest and secure a result against familiar opposition.

The encounter was particularly interesting because of McCarthy's connection to South African football. Having represented Bafana Bafana during his playing career and enjoyed a distinguished career in European football, his assessment carried additional significance.

However, his focus is now firmly on strengthening Kenya's national team and building a competitive side capable of challenging established African football nations.

Ultimately, the 2-2 result underlined the quality and competitiveness displayed by both teams. While neither secured all three points, the encounter provided valuable lessons and positives for their respective technical teams.

McCarthy's conclusion was clear: based on the overall performance, either team could have walked away with victory without the result being considered undeserved.

Match highlights: Kenya recovered from an early setback after Amos Wanjala's ninth-minute own goal put South Africa ahead. Michael Olunga equalised from the penalty spot shortly before half-time, before Relebohile Mofokeng restored Bafana's lead in the 77th minute. Ryan Ogam then struck in the 90th minute to rescue a dramatic point for the visitors.

The result also means Bafana dropped their first points in the qualifying campaign, while McCarthy's men will have another opportunity to test themselves against South Africa when the teams meet again in Nairobi on 17 November.

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