Benni McCarthy Praises Harambee Stars’ Resilience in 3-3 Draw with Gambia
Harambee Stars mounted a dramatic comeback to earn a 3-3 draw against Gambia in a World Cup qualifier. Coach Benni McCarthy praised his team’s fighting spirit as they equalized twice. Despite limited preparation, key substitutions led to vital goals. Gambia’s coach lamented his players’ errors that led to the draw. Both teams shift focus to their next matches.
In a thrilling encounter, the Harambee Stars demonstrated remarkable determination by securing a 3-3 draw against Gambia during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier held at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan. Coach Benni McCarthy commended his team’s resilience and highlighted the pivotal contributions of substitutes Mohamed Bajaber and William Wilson in achieving this crucial result. This match marked the inaugural meeting between the two nations.
Coach McCarthy expressed satisfaction with the draw, noting that his squad had only one training session together prior to this match. He acknowledged the challenges faced but appreciated the fighting spirit exhibited by the players. “The draw does not help us or Gambia, but I will take it because we earned it against a team that has been together longer than us,” McCarthy stated.
The match unfolded dramatically, characterized by two distinct halves. After a goalless first half, Gambia surged ahead in the second half with goals from Musa Barrow and Yankuba Minteh. However, Kenya responded swiftly with a penalty from Captain Michael Olunga and a fantastic goal from Bajaber, leveling the score. Gambia retook the lead late in the game, but a last-minute goal from Wilson ensured a share of the points for Kenya.
Coach McCarthy lauded the impact of his attacking substitutions, which included a decisive penalty earned by Jonah Ayunga. He reflected on the match dynamics, acknowledging that Gambia had gained momentum after an initial Kenyan chance. Despite some struggles, McCarthy underscored the determination his players showcased during the match, particularly noting that fatigue played a role in their second-half difficulties.
As he prepares for the next fixture against Gabon, McCarthy indicated potential changes in the lineup, recognizing the need for managing player fatigue. He remains hopeful despite the current standings in Group F, where Kenya holds six points and Gambia has four. “I know Ivory Coast and Gabon have pulled ahead, but anything can happen,” he remarked.
Conversely, Gambia’s coach, Johnathan McKinstry, expressed disappointment with his team’s performance, attributing their struggles to costly mistakes. He recognized Kenya’s fighting spirit while lamenting the complacency of his players after their initial lead. McKinstry stated, “You can’t make such errors at this level and expect not to be punished.” Both teams are now focusing on their upcoming matches, with Harambee Stars set to host Gabon and Gambia facing Ivory Coast.
The Harambee Stars displayed commendable resilience by securing a draw against Gambia in a thrilling match, showcasing their fighting spirit under the leadership of Coach Benni McCarthy. Despite limited preparation, the team’s determination allowed them to rally from behind twice. The coaches of both teams reflected on the implications of the match, acknowledging areas for improvement as they prepare for their subsequent games. This encounter not only marked a significant moment for Kenya in their World Cup qualifying campaign but also underscored the unpredictability of football.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
