Harambee Stars Exhibit Resilience in 3-3 Draw Against The Gambia

In a thrilling match, Harambee Stars came back from two goals down to draw 3-3 with The Gambia. After a penalty save by goalkeeper Ian Otieno, Gambia scored two goals in the second half. Captain Micheal Olunga converted a penalty, followed by a brilliant equalizer from Mohammed Omar Bajaber. Despite trailing again, Wilson Lenkupae scored in stoppage time to level the match, leaving Kenya in fourth place in Group F.

Harambee Stars showcased remarkable resilience by coming from behind to draw 3-3 against The Gambia at the Alassane Ouattara stadium in Abidjan. Though the first half concluded in a stalemate, Kenya’s goalkeeper Ian Otieno made a crucial penalty save, maintaining the nil-nil score.

The second half saw Gambia scoring first with Musa Barrow finding the net in the 56th minute, followed by Yankuba Minteh who extended their lead just five minutes later. With Kenya facing their impending third defeat in the World Cup qualifiers, a foul in the box allowed St. Mirren midfielder Jonah Ayunga to win a penalty, which team captain Micheal Olunga converted in the 69th minute, narrowing the score to 2-1.

The Stars continued their offensive pressure, resulting in a stunning equalizer from Kenya Police’s Mohammed Omar Bajaber in the 75th minute, making the score 2-2. However, Gambia countered with another score from Barrow in the 84th minute, bringing the score to 3-2. Despite this, the Harambee Stars did not capitulate; Australian-based midfielder Wilson Lenkupae scored a dramatic equalizer in the 96th minute.

The game concluded with Kenya securing a point and sitting in fourth place in Group F, marking Benni McCarthy’s first draw as head coach. The match featured impressive passing and finishing from the Harambee Stars, reflecting a promising future for the team.

The remarkable comeback of the Harambee Stars against The Gambia exemplifies their tenacity and fighting spirit, having rallied from two goals down to secure a draw. This performance not only provides a vital point in their World Cup qualifying campaign but also highlights the team’s potential for future success under head coach Benni McCarthy. The display of skill and determination is a positive indicator for Kenyan football enthusiasts.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke