Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy aims to use the experience of his overseas players in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Gambia. The team arrived in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and is optimistic despite limited training time. Both coaches emphasize the importance of the match and the competitive nature of their teams in Group ‘F.’
Benni McCarthy, the head coach of the Harambee Stars, is optimistic about leveraging the skills of his foreign-based players in their upcoming match against Gambia at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The national team, consisting of a majority of overseas players, arrived in Abidjan on Tuesday evening for this crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. McCarthy characterized the match as a tactical chess game that necessitates judicious strategic plays.
McCarthy highlighted the importance of experience, stating, “The majority of the players I travelled with play for clubs outside the country and have previously worn the national jersey. I believe their experience will be useful when we face Gambia.” He emphasized the objective of gaining as many points as possible from this match, acknowledging Gambia’s strengths while affirming his team’s focus on success.
The Harambee Stars squad that departed on Tuesday morning consisted of only four local players, who had been training with the coach for three days prior to the departure. Despite the limited training under McCarthy, the team is hopeful about their performance. He noted that the team had their final practice session together, allowing the foreign-based players to synchronize with their local counterparts.
Currently, Kenya ranks fourth in Group ‘F’ with five points, trailing group leaders Ivory Coast by five points. McCarthy is set to compete against Jonathan McKinstry, a seasoned coach in African football who previously managed Gor Mahia and led them to a league title.
McKinstry warned against underestimating Gambia, even as they struggle at the bottom of the group: “Nobody should be duped into thinking we are the underdogs in Group ‘F’ just yet. In case our opponents falter, we still have a mathematical chance of qualifying.” He acknowledged the talent present in the Kenyan team, stating that he is prepared for a challenging match despite the logistical hurdles of playing in Ivory Coast due to Caf-certified field shortages in Gambia.
This match marks a pivotal moment in the World Cup qualifying campaign for both teams, where tactical acumen and player performance will significantly influence the outcome.
In anticipation of the crucial match against Gambia, Harambee Stars’ coach Benni McCarthy emphasizes the importance of utilizing foreign-based players’ experience. Despite limited time to train together, the team remains optimistic about their chances. Meanwhile, Gambia’s coach Jonathan McKinstry cautions against underestimating their potential, highlighting the competitive nature of Group ‘F’. As both teams strive for vital points, this match holds significant implications for World Cup qualification.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
