McCarthy to Revamp Stars’ Lineup for World Cup Qualifier Against Gabon

Head coach Benni McCarthy plans to change the starting lineup for the World Cup qualifier against Gabon. Emphasis will be placed on player recovery following the 3-3 draw against Gambia. Key performances in the draw provide a positive outlook for the team as they seek to improve standings in Group F.

Head coach Benni McCarthy has announced that he will alter the starting XI for the impending World Cup qualifier against Gabon, scheduled for Sunday at the Nyayo Stadium. This decision comes in light of the recent 3-3 draw against Gambia, where McCarthy aims to provide opportunities to those players who were substitutes in the previous match.

McCarthy indicated that he will depend heavily on the bench, particularly those who contributed in the latter part of the Gambia match, as he noted, “I don’t think many of them will be fit and ready… available in the way that you would want them for Sunday.” The focus in the days leading up to the match will be on optimizing player recovery.

He stated, “For Sunday’s game, it is about recovering as best possible… just having to trust wherever players available that you put on Sunday because I believe the first half team… was a very strong team.” The Stars returned to Kenya on Friday after their engaging encounter with the Scorpions in Abidjan.

The draw featured multiple thrilling moments, including Nigerian forward Ian Otieno saving an early penalty, and a volley from Musa Barrow that initially put Gambia ahead. Notable performances came from captain Michael Olunga, who equalized via a penalty, and debutants including Mohammed Bajaber and William Lenkupae, both of whom contributed significantly to the match.

McCarthy expressed satisfaction regarding his first match in charge, admitting he could not ask for a more exciting debut. He remarked on the potential improvements that the team can achieve with additional training days, acknowledging, “Overall, I think the draw doesn’t help either us or Gambia but… I am happy with the point and what I’ve seen.” After the match, the Stars currently occupy fourth place in Group F, trailing Burundi by one point.

In conclusion, Benni McCarthy’s strategic adjustments for the upcoming qualifier against Gabon reflect his commitment to player development and recovery. The thrilling match against Gambia showcased the resilience and talent within the Stars squad. His optimistic outlook post-debut reinforces the potential for future improvements as they aim to climb the ranks of Group F in the World Cup qualifiers.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke