Benni McCarthy explains importance of FIFA Series as Kenya face Estonia
The outcome of the initial game between Rwanda and Grenada will determine Harambee Stars next opponent in this short competition.
This upcoming 2026 FIFA Series marks the follow-up event to the original FIFA Series, a tournament organised by FIFA that invites national squads from various continental bodies to participate in exhibition games.
In its structure, the victor of the first encounter meets the victor of the second, and similarly the defeated teams from each initial clash will compete against one another. Through the FIFA Series, Kenya gains a valuable chance to measure their abilities versus teams from diverse regions.
FIFA Council gave the go-ahead for the FIFA Series back in December 2022, ensuring it fits perfectly with FIFA’s key goals for worldwide football development from 2023 until 2027.
For 2026, the event involves 48 member nations, which covers nearly one quarter of FIFA’s total 211 associations, divided into 12 sets containing four teams apiece.
Prior to the matchup with Estonia, the ex-assistant coach at Manchester United shares insights on the significance of this tournament for Kenya’s buildup towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, known as AFCON.
FIFA Series a great initiative
“FIFA has introduced an excellent programme here, as it gives us African nations a special chance to compete with teams from other areas, including those from Europe and the Caribbean,” McCarthy remarked, according to SportPesa Blog.
“This setup truly benefits our squad by allowing them to evaluate their techniques and overall standing in our development stages and national progress.”
McCarthy went on: “Facing these European sides, particularly Estonia, who recently took on Cyprus, Norway, and Italy during World Cup qualifying rounds, provides a solid benchmark for us.
“I am keen for the players to feel enthusiastic about this task and to give their utmost effort, revealing the gap between us and European standards, since viewing their World Cup qualifiers often makes one feel our capabilities fall short.
“This gives us a real shot to gauge our performance against a strong European team, making it both intriguing and a beneficial trial for our current roster.”
‘It is about being ready to compete’
The 36th African football showcase, run by the Confederation of African Football or CAF, will take place in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, running from 19 June to 18 July.
“Another aspect is the educational value. With AFCON 2027 on the horizon, do not anticipate dominating every fixture,” McCarthy continued.
“My focus lies on ensuring the team is prepared to vie, to absorb lessons, and to advance beyond our previous efforts. Building on any past achievements, our aim is simply to participate, gain knowledge, and enhance our game.
“By the time AFCON 2027 arrives, all the insights from engagements like the FIFA Series and forthcoming international exhibitions should help us evolve collectively as a unit and personally.”
To wrap up, McCarthy stated: “Come 2027, that is when I expect to hear from my players about aiming to secure three victories in four group matches and advance further. At present, however, it centres on progression, refinement, and drawing wisdom from each encounter we face.”
The 2027 AFCON stands as the inaugural one shared by three host nations and the first in the CECAFA zone in fifty years, following Ethiopia’s hosting in 1976.