This article discusses Gambia’s coach Johnathan McKinstry, who prepares for a World Cup qualifier against Kenya, leveraging his deep familiarity with Kenyan football. The match, set in Abidjan, features tactical shifts under both coaches and highlights the adaptations necessary due to Ramadhan. The article explores the implications of past coaching experiences and the significance of evolving play styles for both teams.
Gambia’s coach, Johnathan McKinstry, who previously managed Kenyan club Gor Mahia, has a nuanced understanding of Kenyan football. Under his leadership from July 2022 to June 2024, he won two league titles and a Super Cup. Now, as he prepares Gambia for a matchup against Kenya in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, his experience working with Rwanda and Uganda further enriches his insights into Kenyan play styles.
This encounter, set for Thursday at the Alassane Outtara Stadium in Abidjan, marks the inaugural clash between Gambia and Kenya, with Gambia being the 55th team that Harambee Stars have faced in official matches. McKinstry anticipates a dynamic approach from Kenya under newly appointed coach Benni McCarthy, noting a potential shift from a previously defensive strategy to an attacking style.
Acknowledging his familiarity with McCarthy’s coaching philosophy, McKinstry stated, “If you had asked me six months ago, I would have said that Kenya would play defensively… However, with McCarthy in charge… McCarthy’s teams attack and press continuously.” He relates this transformation to his own experiences at Gambia, where he has fostered an attacking mentality that contrasts with the conservative tactics used by former coach Tom Saintfeit.
Gambian sports journalist Amadou Tamba highlighted that McKinstry’s focus on player selection prioritizes form and consistency, a stark change from Saintfeit’s approach which often included out-of-form players. McKinstry himself remarked on the depth of talent available for selection, affirming his duty to harness players’ club performances at the national level.
The current training camp atmosphere is vibrant, with McKinstry expressing satisfaction with the players’ eagerness following a five-month hiatus from international play. Gambia will host the match in Ivory Coast due to the lack of a CAF-approved stadium in the nation, a point Tamba voices concern over.
Previously, both Gambia and Kenya played their last competitive matches at home in 2021, with Gambia opting for neutral hosting venues in Morocco due to logistical agreements. Tamba mentions this compromises Gambia’s home-field advantage, asserting that matches at home could significantly bolster performance.
Despite losses in their previous qualifiers, Gambia has seen a revitalization under McKinstry’s leadership, evidenced by a significant victory against Seychelles. He remains optimistic about accumulating points against Kenya and Ivory Coast despite facing challenges.
Unlike the Harambee Stars’ lineup, which includes local players, McKinstry has chosen to overlook domestic league players, a reflection of the disparities in quality between both nations’ football structures. Tamba emphasized the need for Gambia to cultivate a stronger domestic league to compete more effectively.
McKinstry’s squad showcases a mix of experience and youth, with players like Musa Dibaga and captain Omar Colley highlighting the potential of his selections. His strategy emphasizes leveraging Gambian talent abroad and integrating it into the national squad.
To accommodate Ramadhan fasting, the team’s training and travel arrangements have been adjusted, balancing respect for cultural practices with competitive preparation. McKinstry draws upon his previous experiences in similar contexts to manage these adjustments effectively.
As the match approaches, McKinstry recognizes that familiarity may not guarantee predictability, stating, “Knowing Kenyan players does not mean I know what their game plan is going to be.” The encounter promises to be a significant personal and professional milestone for him.
This reunion with Kenyan football will assess not only McKinstry’s coaching evolution but also reveal the unpredictable nature of the sport itself.
In summary, the upcoming match between Gambia and Kenya is not only a World Cup qualifier but also a significant test for McKinstry, drawing on his past experiences in Kenyan football. Both coaches aim to implement their attacking philosophies, marking a transformation from previously conservative tactics. With adaptations for player fitness during Ramadhan, the encounter signifies a confluence of strategy, history, and cultural respect, destined to be a consequential moment for both teams.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
