Benni McCarthy, head coach of the Kenya national football team, remains optimistic about Harambee Stars’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
The 47-year-old South African football icon oversaw his debut match as the Kenya coach in a Group F qualifier against Gambia on Thursday, March 20th, held in Ivory Coast. The encounter, hosted at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium, proved to be a thrilling six-goal spectacle, with Kenya exhibiting resilience by coming from behind twice to secure a 3-3 draw.
After a scoreless first half, Gambia surged ahead with two quick goals from Musa Barrow and Yankuba Minteh at the beginning of the second half. However, Kenya quickly responded as their leading striker, Michael Olunga, converted a penalty and substitute Mohammed Bajaber delivered a spectacular strike to level the match at 2-2.
Though Barrow netted again to restore Gambia’s lead at 3-2 with a late goal, substitute William Wilson struck back for Kenya, ensuring the East African side walked away with a valuable point.
In a separate group match, Gabon triumphed over Seychelles 3-0, thanks in part to two goals from Denis Bouanga, alongside an opener from Jim Allevinah.
Group Remains Competitive After Draw
The result allowed Gabon to move to the top of the group standings, overtaking the reigning champions, Ivory Coast, who are set to play against Burundi on Friday. Despite the draw, McCarthy refuses to abandon hope, believing that there are ample points still available and that he will relentlessly pursue qualification.
“It would be foolish to give up on qualification, and I’m sure even the opposing coach would echo the same sentiment. Every team has aspirations, and there’s still a long way to go. Teams will drop points, and Gambia can just as easily beat Ivory Coast as Kenya can topple both Ivory Coast and Gabon,” McCarthy asserted following the match.
“This group is still wide open; top teams have taken their chances and collected points early on, but with five games left, many points are still on offer. We remain hopeful.”
Reflecting on his inaugural match as Kenya’s coach, McCarthy shared, “I was quite stressed and not completely satisfied. Although it was entertaining due to the high-scoring nature, I think both teams pushed each other well.”
The Scorpions had a chance to take the lead in the 30th minute when they were awarded a penalty following a foul on Barrow. The 26-year-old, who plays in the Saudi Pro League for Al Taawoun, saw his weak attempt saved by Kenyan goalkeeper Ian Otieno.
Commenting on the penalty, McCarthy noted, “In the first half, we examined each other, and we had a golden opportunity with Michael Olunga, which he didn’t convert. Following that, Gambia gained momentum and earned a penalty that could have given them momentum, but fortunately, our goalkeeper made a fantastic save.”
McCarthy explained further: “Heading into half-time at 0-0 was a fair reflection of the first half as both teams had chances to score, yet neither did. The second half unfolded in a bizarre manner, with both teams showing different attitudes; perhaps the heat impacted us. We made two critical defensive errors, allowing Gambia to capitalise.”
The former Cape Town City and AmaZulu manager praised his substitutions for the turnaround after trailing 2-0. Following Gambia’s second goal, McCarthy quickly brought on Jonah Ayunga and debutant Bajaber for John Avire and Eric Johanna.
It was Ayunga’s foul that led to Olunga’s penalty, and Bajaber later showcased his talent with a brilliant equaliser. However, McCarthy was critical of the penalty call, labelling it “soft” and expressing that he would have been aggrieved had it gone against his side.
“I made changes to infuse fresh energy into the squad as several players had just arrived from Europe on Tuesday and had only one training session together. The penalty might have been questioned based on the defender’s positioning; however, I’m not unhappy with the decision as we are glad it was given in our favour. Olunga converted it, instilling hope within the team.”
He added, “We quickly created numerous chances once we found our rhythm, and Bajaber’s individual brilliance took us level at 2-2.”
McCarthy Instances Defensive Miscommunication
“We had the momentum and looked to take control, but we made another rookie mistake due to a lack of communication and organisation among the players,” McCarthy admitted.
“We then took risks and attempted a counter-attack, creating a solid chance but ultimately failing to execute. I haven’t reviewed all the footage yet, but it appeared there was a shout for offside before Gambia scored the third goal with just six or seven minutes left.”
Regarding Kenya’s determination to equalise once more, which they managed in the dying moments through Wilson, McCarthy commented: “It was a commendable effort from the team. To concede in the manner we did, right after appearing in control, was disappointing. However, the boys displayed immense fight and character to battle until the end, eventually netting a last-minute equaliser.”
He added, “Overall, while a draw doesn’t significantly benefit either side, given it’s my first match in charge after only a few days, I’m satisfied with the point and keen on the progress made. I can see our development and am hopeful that with a little more training, we can push for a better result against Gabon.”
“Energy and performance levels have shown promise as my players aimed to execute my vision, leaving me exceptionally proud of their resilience.”
On their upcoming match against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium this Sunday, McCarthy noted, “We will focus on recovery and trust in our squad. The starting team I fielded in the first half is solid, comprising players from reputable European leagues.”
Yet, he hinted at potential adjustments to his lineup, acknowledging the contributions of players who came off the bench to ensure the draw.
“I believe that was one of our strongest lineups, and not all players may be fit for Sunday’s match, so I will likely depend heavily on my bench players.”
“Those who entered in the second half brought in a refreshing mentality, and two made a significant impact by scoring, demonstrating their ability to deliver the kind of performance we aim for.”
McCarthy, however, remains pragmatic, emphasising the need for further assimilation with his players before achieving consistent results.
“We only had one training session together; it’s impractical to expect us to play like Barcelona under these circumstances. The players need time to adapt to each other,” he remarked.
“We have various styles and expectations, so it’s unrealistic to anticipate immediate results. Nonetheless, I’m pleased with our display against Gambia, and earning a draw against them represents a commendable effort.”
“A 3-3 draw is a reasonable result, but now our focus shifts to recovery ahead of the next game. Traveling back to Kenya for training on Saturday presents challenges, yet playing at home means we’ll have support from our fans.”
This showdown against Gabon is pivotal for Harambee Stars as they strive for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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