Benni McCarthy/ XINHUA
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup transforms the planet into the ultimate global football theatre, the top tactical minds of the SportPesa Premier League have revealed the powerhouse nations they are backing for glory.
From the reigning champions, Argentina, to legendary football empires across Europe and South America, these celebrated coaches have chosen their teams based on a deep admiration for unique football philosophies, world-class youth academies, and generations of winning mentalities.
Whether standing firmly behind African giants like Ghana and South Africa, or saluting the discipline of Germany, the creativity of Brazil, and the tactical mastery of France, Spain, and Belgium, Kenya’s premier coaches are completely united by their shared passion for the beautiful game.
Sammy “Pamzo” Omollo (APS Bomet)—France
I have admired France for many years, especially because of players like Thierry Henry. He was one of those players who inspired a generation because of the way he carried himself on and off the pitch. France’s strength comes from a deeply rooted football culture and highly organised development structures that continue to nurture talent. France always seems to produce players capable of competing at the highest level. In every tournament, they arrive with new stars, but the standard never drops. That tells you a lot about the strength of their system."
Julien Mette (Tusker FC)- France
France has always been one of the strongest football nations in the world. They have a fantastic football culture and continue to produce players of the highest quality. What impresses me is their ability to replace great players with new generations of talent without losing their competitive edge.
Charles Akonnor (Gor Mahia)-Ghana
Ghana is my country, and I will always stand behind the Black Stars. It is the team that gave me some of the greatest moments of my football life and represents the hopes and dreams of millions of Ghanaians. We have talented players capable of competing with the best nations because the quality within the squad is undeniable. The quality is there, the ambition is there, and the hunger is there. What the team needs is confidence and consistency."
Benni McCarthy (Harambee Stars)-South Africa
I will always support Africa and particularly South Africa whenever they compete on the world stage. My roots are in South African football, and I understand what it means for our people. African football has made enormous progress and continues to close the gap on the traditional football powers. There is far more quality in African football today than many people realise. The players are competing at top clubs around the world, and the tactical understanding continues to grow.
Patrick Aussems (Nairobi United)—Belgium
Belgium is the team I will be following because I have always admired their football philosophy and the way they have developed as a football nation. Their rise was not accidental; it was the result of patience, planning and long-term investment in football development. Belgium did not become a strong football country overnight. They invested in structures, developed players and created a system that allowed talent to grow.
Fred Ambani (AFC Leopards)—Brazil
Brazil has always represented the beauty of football. They play with freedom, creativity and passion, and that is something every football lover appreciates. Brazil carry one of the richest football traditions in the world, and its identity remains closely linked to the game's history. When you talk about football history, Brazil is one of the first countries that comes to mind. They have given the game some of its greatest moments and players.
Robert Matano (KCB)—Germany
Germany has always been known for discipline and preparation. They approach football with seriousness, and that is something I respect as a coach. Their greatest strength is their mentality because they never stop believing, regardless of the circumstances.
German teams always believe until the final whistle. They have shown many times that they can recover from difficult situations because of their strong mentality.
William Muluya (Kariobangi Sharks)—Spain
Spain changed the way many people look at football. Their approach showed the importance of controlling games through possession, movement and intelligence. Their youth development structures continue to produce technically gifted players who understand the philosophy of the national team. They continue to develop young players who understand the Spanish way of playing. That shows the strength of their football structures."
