Harambee Stars Display Resilience in Draw Against The Gambia, Gear Up for Gabon
The Harambee Stars secured a dramatic 3-3 draw against The Gambia in World Cup qualifying, showcasing resilience and sparking mixed fan reactions. The match featured significant performances from captain Michael Olunga and substitutes Mohammed Bajaber and William Lenkupae. Upcoming is a crucial home match against Gabon, with hopes of continuing their qualification journey.
The Harambee Stars demonstrated resilience in their recent match, achieving a 3-3 draw against The Gambia during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. This encounter captivated fans online, reflecting a variety of opinions concerning team performance, following its completion on March 20 at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The game transitioned from a goalless first half, highlighted by goalkeeper Ian Otieno’s penalty save, to a dynamic second half with six goals.
Musa Barrow netted twice for The Gambia, with Yankuba Minteh contributing a third goal. The Stars scored through team captain Michael Olunga and substitutes Mohammed Bajaber and debutant William Lenkupae. Reactions from fans varied widely, indicating both appreciation and critique of the team’s performance.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed commended the Harambee Stars for their determination: “Our national team epitomized resilience, heart, and courage… HONGERA! Back to the battlefield this Sunday as we host Gabon at Nyayo Stadium.” Supporters like Min Blessing noted improvement potential, praising Otieno’s penalty save while suggesting that the team should maintain more aggressive offensive play.
Collins Koyo, a Gor Mahia enthusiast, celebrated the team’s goal-scoring, expressing satisfaction over the three goals scored away from home. Notably, veteran journalist Elijah Ouko praised the team’s courage, projecting a positive future under coach Benni McCarthy: “If Harambee Stars continue playing like that, Benni McCarthy will be loved by Kenyan fans.”
David King Onjili commended Bajaber, calling him a national treasure, while Mozzart Sport senior writer Kevin Teya offered tactical analysis. He observed that starting defensively might not have been optimal, as it allowed Gambia to dominate early on. Teya acknowledged the effective substitutions made by McCarthy as crucial for the Stars’ performance recovery.
Alex Ngare, manager at Swara FC, highlighted the importance of incorporating locally talented players like Bajaber into the team. In contrast, Allan Omuse raised concerns about the initial defensive setup, urging for stronger starting strategies in future matches. Ultimately, James Nyamweya credited the substitutions for turning the tide, pointing out that Bajaber’s creativity is essential for the team’s offensive success.
Heading into their upcoming match against Gabon on March 23 at Nyayo National Stadium, the Harambee Stars are presently fourth in Group F, with six points. A victory against Gabon is critical to sustain their aspirations for World Cup qualification.
The Harambee Stars displayed notable resilience in their draw against The Gambia, indicating potential for growth under coach Benni McCarthy. The team’s performance evoked a wide range of reactions from fans, highlighting both commendations and critiques. Going forward, the challenge will be to build on this momentum in the forthcoming match against Gabon, which is essential for their World Cup qualification hopes.
Original Source: www.mozzartsport.co.ke
