Kenya’s national team coach Benni McCarthy is excited to lead his side in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, starting with a match against Gambia on March 20. Currently fourth in Group F after two draws, Kenya aims to improve as Gambia faces a similar situation after a recent defeat. Both coaches anticipate an engaging contest.
Kenya national team coach Benni McCarthy expressed his enthusiasm for leading the Harambee Stars in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, starting with a match against Gambia on March 20 at 9:00 PM CAT at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium. The Harambee Stars are currently in fourth place in Group F after drawing their opening games against Burundi and Ivory Coast, and they are five points behind group leaders Ivory Coast following four matches.
McCarthy, in his first assignment as head coach, emphasized the importance of embracing challenges. “I’m thrilled to lead my first two World Cup qualifiers. I’m eager to work with the talented squad I’ve selected for the campaign,” he remarked. He acknowledged the hard work ahead for the team but expressed readiness to tackle the challenge together.
Gambia, currently fifth in Group F, aims to recover from a recent 3-2 defeat to Gabon. They trail Kenya by two points as they prepare for the match in Ivory Coast. Gambia’s coach, Johnathan McKinstry, commented on McCarthy’s appointment, anticipating an attacking style of play from Kenya. He noted McCarthy’s historical approach to coaching, highlighting his teams’ preference for pressing and attacking football, reflecting on McCarthy’s own excellence as a player in South Africa.
Benni McCarthy’s first match as Kenya’s coach is set for March 20 against Gambia amidst high expectations. With Kenya coming off two draws, they seek improvement in their World Cup qualifying campaign. Gambia also aims for a rebound after their recent loss. The match is crucial, with both teams striving for crucial points in Group F.
Original Source: africanfootball.com
