Doting dad Benni McCarthy gushes over his all-conquering 'novice' AmaZulu

Cape Town - Benni McCarthy's dual role as a doting father and a proud coach played itself out at Friday's night press conference after AmaZulu had scored back-to-back Champions League wins.

AmaZulu defeated Algerian visitors ES Sétif 1-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in their African Champions League Group B match. A week earlier, AmaZulu defeated Guinea's Horoya SC by the same margin at the same venue.

"Six points in two games, not bad, hey. How many of you thought AmaZulu would have six points after three matches? That is what we have done," said McCarthy.

“It is a special win, but it is also an incredibly special day for me. Today was the day (17 years ago), I had my first child (daughter Minna) ever,” said an emotionally charged McCarthy, a father of four daughters.

ALSO READ: Poland pulls out of Soccer World Cup play-off against Russia

“It’s her birthday today, and she turned 17, which is a massively significant number for me. My life changed when I was 17 (years), and my daughter turned 17 today.

“It (today) could not have been sweeter, and I hope she had a beautiful day just as I’m about to have now after today’s game."

Although McCarthy was bursting with pride, it did not now show in his demeanour. He seemed dispirited when facing the media.

“I think it was a very good game," he retorted when asked for his thoughts on the match. "The first 20 minutes was very one-sided, and it is why you don’t see me with a bigger smile on my face.

“It was a bit of a bitter-sweet moment for me. It is not every day that you find a novice team in the Caf Champions League going up against two-time winners ES Sétif, and three-time winners Raja and they are so comfortable in their skin. These things we do make me proud, and often I