The Harambee Stars are gearing up to face The Gambia in a key World Cup Qualifier in Abidjan. Captain Michael Olunga believes in the team’s ability to secure a positive result, while new coach Benni McCarthy expresses eagerness for the challenge. Following this match, Kenya will host Gabon in March. Currently, Kenya is fourth in Group F with five points.
The Kenyan national soccer team, known as Harambee Stars, is poised to face The Gambia in a vital World Cup Qualifier set to take place tomorrow in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. This match will be broadcasted by KBC TV at 10 PM East Africa Time. The Gambia will host the fixture at the Allasane Outtara Stadium due to the absence of CAF/FIFA accredited facilities in their home country.
Captain Michael Olunga indicated the team’s readiness to confront The Gambia, describing them as a formidable opponent. He emphasized, “Everybody is really looking forward to these two fixtures. We know the group is still open, and we are facing Gambia, which is rising in Africa and has a good squad, so it’s going to be a good encounter to showcase our worth.”
Under the guidance of new head coach Benni McCarthy, the Harambee Stars aim to reaffirm their position in a competitive group. Olunga stated, “It’s a new start and the dynamics are different, and we have to be patient with the team. We must adapt to the new style of play that the new coach wants us to implement, hoping for positive results.”
Coach Benni McCarthy expressed enthusiasm regarding his selected squad for the qualifiers, stating, “I’m thrilled to lead my first two World Cup qualifiers. I’m eager to work with the talented squad I’ve selected for the campaign. There’s plenty of hard work and dedication ahead, but we’re ready to embrace the challenge as a team.”
Following the match against The Gambia, Kenya will host Gabon on March 23 at Nyayo National Stadium. Currently, Kenya ranks fourth in Group F with five points after achieving a win against Seychelles and two draws with Burundi and Ivory Coast. The standings show Ivory Coast in the lead with 10 points, followed by Gabon and Burundi with 9 and 7 points, respectively.
The squad for Harambee Stars includes the following players:
Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikhalo.
Defenders: Jonestone Omurwa, Brian Mandela, Daniel Anyembe, Amos Nondi, Erick Ouma, Manzur Okwaro, Ronny Onyango.
Midfielders: Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Ismael Gonzalez, Timothy Ouma, Eric Johana, Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanley Omondi.
Forwards: Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia, John Avire, Michael Olunga.
In summary, the Harambee Stars are prepared to tackle The Gambia in a crucial World Cup Qualifier, with Captain Michael Olunga expressing confidence in their capability. The appointment of Benni McCarthy marks a new chapter for the team as they strive for improved standings in Group F. The upcoming matches are critical for demonstrating Kenya’s soccer potential on the international stage.
Original Source: www.kbc.co.ke
