Benni McCarthy Confident as Kenya Fights Back for Thrilling Draw Against Gambia in World Cup Qualifier
Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, produced a thrilling performance to secure a 3-3 draw against Gambia in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Under the leadership of new head coach Benni McCarthy, the East African side displayed resilience, coming from behind twice to snatch a crucial point at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Ivory Coast.
The high-intensity Group F clash was McCarthy’s first game in charge of Kenya, and while the result was not ideal, the South African tactician remains optimistic about his team’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup, set to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
A Match Full of Twists and Turns
The game began at a cautious pace, with both sides trying to gain control in midfield. Kenya had an early chance to break the deadlock through captain Michael Olunga, but the experienced forward was unable to convert his header from close range.
Gambia was then awarded a penalty in the 30th minute after Musa Barrow was fouled in the box. The forward, who plays for Saudi Pro League club Al Taawoun, stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno pulled off a brilliant save to keep the score level.
The match remained goalless at halftime, but the second half exploded into action. Gambia took the lead just minutes after the restart when Barrow found the back of the net. Yankuba Minteh doubled their advantage shortly after, putting Kenya in a difficult position at 2-0 down.
However, McCarthy’s side showed great character and responded almost immediately. Kenya was awarded a penalty, which Olunga confidently converted to cut the deficit to 2-1. Shortly after, substitute Mohammed Bajaber, making his debut for the national team, scored a stunning goal to level the game at 2-2, sending the Kenyan supporters into celebration.
Just when it seemed like Kenya had regained control, Barrow struck again, scoring his second goal of the night to restore Gambia’s lead at 3-2. But Harambee Stars refused to give up. Another substitute, William Wilson, produced a moment of brilliance in stoppage time, scoring the equalizer with the last kick of the game to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw.
McCarthy Remains Optimistic Despite Draw
Speaking after the match, McCarthy refused to rule out Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup. The 47-year-old coach acknowledged that the group is still open and believes his team can still fight for a place in the tournament.
“You would be a fool to give up on qualification. There are still five more games to play, and anything can happen,” McCarthy stated. “Teams will drop points along the way. Gambia can beat Ivory Coast, Kenya can beat Ivory Coast and Gabon. The group is still wide open.”
McCarthy was pleased with his team’s fighting spirit, especially considering that the squad had only one full training session together before the match. He admitted that while there are areas to improve, he was encouraged by what he saw on the pitch.
“The second half was crazy,” he said. “We made some mistakes in defense, and Gambia punished us. But the way the boys responded was fantastic. Coming from behind twice in a World Cup qualifier is not easy, and that shows the character of this team.”
Impactful Substitutions and Tactical Adjustments
McCarthy’s substitutions played a crucial role in Kenya’s comeback. Trailing 2-0, he made a double change, introducing Jonah Ayunga and Mohammed Bajaber for John Avire and Eric Johanna. The changes had an immediate impact, with Ayunga winning the penalty that Olunga converted, and Bajaber scoring a brilliant goal to bring the score to 2-2.
“I changed things around and brought in fresh legs because some players had just arrived from Europe and were not fully fit,” McCarthy explained. “The substitutes made a big difference, and I am happy with their contribution.”
The coach also praised his team’s determination to fight until the final whistle. “At 3-2 down in the last minutes, many teams would have given up. But our players showed resilience and belief, and we got the equalizer. That is the mentality we need going forward,” he added.
Group Standings and Next Challenge Against Gabon
Kenya’s draw against Gambia leaves the group wide open. In another Group F match, Gabon secured a 3-0 win over Seychelles, moving them to the top of the standings. Reigning African champions Ivory Coast will be in action against Burundi, with the result potentially affecting Kenya’s qualification hopes.
Harambee Stars will now shift their focus to their next match against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday. McCarthy acknowledged that his squad will need to recover quickly and may see some changes in the starting lineup.
“We have a strong team, but some players may not be fully fit for Sunday’s match,” he noted. “The substitutes who made an impact today might get a chance to start, and I trust them to deliver.”
Despite the short preparation time, McCarthy remains confident that Kenya can get a positive result at home. “We are playing in front of our fans, and that gives us an advantage. We will prepare as best as we can and go for the win,” he concluded.
This Sunday, 23rd March, we take on Gabon in the World Cup qualifiers. Be our 12th man and let’s push Kenyan football forward together!#HarambeeStars #WCQ pic.twitter.com/H3O5s8XkkP
— Harambee Stars (@Harambee__Stars) March 21, 2025
Kenya’s Fighting Spirit a Sign of Progress
McCarthy’s first game in charge of Kenya showcased a team full of resilience and determination. While there are still tactical adjustments to be made, the draw against Gambia demonstrated that Harambee Stars have the potential to challenge for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With crucial matches still ahead, Kenya’s journey in the qualifiers is far from over. The focus now shifts to their home game against Gabon, where they will look to secure their first win under McCarthy’s leadership and keep their World Cup dream alive.
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