Tactical Reflections: Benni McCarthy’s Impact on Harambee Stars Against The Gambia
Harambee Stars, under Coach Benni McCarthy, showcased commendable tactical flexibility in their 3-3 draw against The Gambia in a FIFA World Cup qualifier. McCarthy’s strategic shifts, particularly through key substitutions and formation changes, facilitated a notable recovery after initially falling behind in the match, marking a potential new era for Kenyan football.
A new chapter for Harambee Stars began at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, marked by the appointment of former South African international Benni McCarthy as head coach. McCarthy’s initial challenge was a FIFA World Cup qualifier against The Gambia, managed by Johnathan McKinstry, a coach with a successful record in the FKF Premier League.
In the match, McCarthy tactically organized Kenya in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation, with Ian Otieno as goalkeeper and fullbacks Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma and Rooney Onyango. Central defenders Daniel Anyembe and Brian Mandela were supported by a midfield trio of Anthony Akumu, Ismael Gonzalez, and Richard Odada, while Michael Olunga led the attack surrounded by John Avire and Eric Johana.
Conversely, McKinstry opted for a 1-5-2-3 formation, anticipating a shift in Kenya’s approach. Having previously struggled defensively, The Gambia scored nine goals in four matches, showcasing their attacking capabilities, predominantly through stars Yakuba Minteh and Musa Barrow.
Kenya aimed to build from the back through a 2-4-4 structure during goal kicks, transitioning into a 3-3-4 formation during settled possession. Midfielders Gonzalez and Odada displayed significant positional fluidity, with Akumu frequently moving into advanced areas or dropping back to support central defenders. However, the connection between midfield and attack lacked coherence, leading to limited opportunities for forwards Johana and Avire.
The Gambian defense efficiently executed a 5-4-1 midblock, leveraging pressure on Kenyan midfielders while preventing meaningful offensive connections. Despite some promising deliveries into their box, Kenya’s finishing left much to be desired, as evidenced by Olunga’s missed opportunities.
Defensively, The Gambia sought to isolate Kenyan players through clever overloads, eventually earning a penalty after goalkeeper Otieno made late contact with Alieu Fadera, yet he redeemed himself by saving Barrow’s attempt.
In the second half, McCarthy introduced winger William Lenkupae, prompting a strategic shift. This change led to Eric Johana repositioning into an attacking midfield role, allowing for a dynamic approach despite Gambia initially gaining the upper hand with a stunning long-range goal from Barrow.
As the match progressed and Kenya fell behind, McCarthy made pivotal substitutions, switching to a 4-4-2 formation, which immediately paid off. Olunga earned a penalty when Ayunga was fouled, allowing Kenya to narrow the score to 2-1. Subsequently, Bajaber capitalized on an opportunity, scoring to level the match at 2-2.
Amidst the intensity, Gambia struck back to regain the lead at 3-2, yet Kenya remained resolute. In the final moments, Lenkupae scored in a chaotic sequence, culminating in a 3-3 draw. This match showcased McCarthy’s tactical proficiency, signaling a potential transformation for Harambee Stars away from their previously conservative nature.
The match between Harambee Stars and The Gambia highlighted significant tactical evolution under Coach Benni McCarthy. Strategic substitutions and formation adjustments allowed Kenya to recover from a losing position, culminating in a dramatic 3-3 draw. The performance indicated a promising shift towards a more dynamic and attacking style of play, moving away from the team’s historically defensive tendencies.
Original Source: www.mozzartsport.co.ke
