Kenya national team coach Benni McCarthy is enthusiastic about his debut in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, beginning with a match against Gambia. The Harambee Stars, currently fourth in Group F with two draws, seek to improve their standings. McCarthy is eager to embrace challenges with his selected squad, and Gambia also aims to recover from recent losses.
Benni McCarthy, the head coach of the Kenya national team, expressed his enthusiasm for leading the Harambee Stars in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Their first match is against Gambia at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium on March 20, 2025, with a kick-off time of 9:00 PM CAT.
The Harambee Stars have had a challenging start to their qualifying campaign, registering two consecutive draws against Burundi and Ivory Coast. Currently, Kenya occupies the 4th position in Group F and trails the leaders, Ivory Coast, by five points after playing four matches.
As McCarthy embarks on his first campaign as Kenya’s coach, he underscored the importance of embracing challenges. “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,” McCarthy stated. He noted the collective effort necessary in preparing for the upcoming matches.
Gambia, positioned 5th in Group F, is also aiming to return to form after their recent 3-2 defeat against Gabon. They trail Kenya by two points ahead of their crucial fixture in Ivory Coast. Gambia’s coach, Johnathan McKinstry, commented on McCarthy’s leadership and anticipates an attacking style from the Kenyan team.
“It’s a new era in Kenyan Football,” McKinstry noted, highlighting McCarthy’s history of fostering an offensive brand of play during his coaching tenure in South Africa.
Benni McCarthy’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for Kenyan football as he prepares to lead the Harambee Stars in the World Cup qualifiers. With challenges ahead after a lackluster start, McCarthy is excited to utilize his talented squad. Alongside Gambia, who also seeks a turnaround, this match promises to be a test of strategy and resilience in Group F.
Original Source: africanfootball.com
