Debutants Shine as Kenya Draws with Gambia in Thrilling Encounter

Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, drew 3-3 with Gambia in the CAF World Cup Qualifiers, showcasing debuts from Mohammed Bajaber and William Lenkupae while under the new management of Benny McCarthy. The match featured dynamic scoring changes, with Kenya recovering from a 2-0 deficit, culminating in a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time. Kenya’s next challenge will be against Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium, marking their first home match in over two years.

On Thursday night, the Kenyan national football team, Harambee Stars, demonstrated resilience by drawing 3-3 against Gambia in the CAF World Cup Qualifiers held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The match marked a significant occasion, as substitutes Mohammed Bajaber and William Lenkupae made their debuts, while Benny McCarthy commenced his tenure as head coach of Kenya.

Harambee Stars initiated offensive plays early in the game, with Richard Odada missing an opportunity to score in the 5th minute. Captain Michael Olunga also missed a header shortly thereafter, keeping the game level. Despite controlling possession for most of the first half, disaster nearly struck when Kenyan goalkeeper Ian Otieno misread a rebound, resulting in a penalty for Gambia. Fortunately, Otieno redeemed himself by saving the penalty.

Before halftime, Gambia threatened to score, but the Kenyan defense, notably through left back Eric Ouma, maintained their composure and cleared the ball. McCarthy introduced William Lenkupae at halftime, aiming to invigorate the attack. The second half shifted momentum as Gambia scored twice within minutes, with Musa Barrow and Yankuba Minteh finding the net, marking a 2-0 lead for Gambia.

In response, McCarthy made further substitutions, bringing in Mohammed Bajaber and Jonah Ayunga. These strategic changes paid off in the 67th minute when Kenya was awarded a penalty. Olunga converted, narrowing the score to 2-1. Subsequently, Bajaber scored the equalizer at 2-2 with a composed finish. However, Gambia regained the lead through Barrow, making it 3-2 in the 83rd minute.

The match climaxed dramatically as Lenkupae, in the dying seconds of the game, secured an equalizer, making the final score 3-3. This remarkable performance leaves Kenya with 6 points in the group stage, with Gabon leading at 12 points. Kenya is set to face Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, their first home match in over two years.

In conclusion, the match showcased the debutant talents of Mohammed Bajaber and William Lenkupae, both of whom played pivotal roles in securing a draw for Kenya against Gambia. Coach Benny McCarthy’s strategic substitutions proved crucial, as the team demonstrated resilience despite initially trailing. With a total of 6 points, Kenya aims to continue building momentum in their upcoming home match against Gabon.

Original Source: www.michezoafrika.com