Harambee Stars’ coach Benni McCarthy plans to utilize the experience of foreign-based players in their match against Gambia for the World Cup qualifiers. With limited preparation time, the team’s goal is to secure as many points as possible. Gambia’s coach, Jonathan McKinstry, cautions against underestimating his team, emphasizing their own ambitions in the group.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy aims to leverage the expertise of his foreign-based players in their upcoming match against Gambia at Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The team arrived on Tuesday night, preparing for a critical qualifier in the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. McCarthy labeled the match a strategic contest, emphasizing the significance of each tactical move.
McCarthy emphasized the value of experience, stating, “The majority of the players I travelled with play for clubs outside the country and have previously worn the national jersey. I believe their experience will be useful when we face Gambia.” He set a clear objective for the team: to maximize points from the match, acknowledging Gambia as a formidable opponent while asserting Kenya’s ambition to score.
The squad that departed for Abidjan included only four local players who trained with McCarthy prior to the match. Despite limited preparation time, the team remains optimistic about their chances. McCarthy noted the foreign players trained collectively for the first time on Wednesday during a crucial final practice session.
Currently, Kenya ranks fourth in Group ‘F’ with five points, trailing group leaders Ivory Coast by five points. McCarthy’s counterpart, Jonathan McKinstry of Gambia, previously managed Gor Mahia. McKinstry warns against underestimating Gambia, asserting, “Nobody should be duped into thinking we are the underdogs in Group ‘F’ just yet. If our opponents falter, we still have a chance at qualifying.”
McKinstry acknowledged Kenya’s significance in African football, sharing his insights on their talent pool. He mentioned, “I must say Kenya is a talent-rich country because I have worked with and witnessed some of the players in action.” He noted that despite logistical challenges, Gambia is committed to performing optimally and securing points in their matches, stating that their current home games take place in Ivory Coast due to a lack of Caf-certified fields.
In summary, Benni McCarthy relies on international players’ experience as Harambee Stars prepares to face Gambia in a key World Cup qualifier. Despite limited training, the team’s focus is on securing maximum points. Meanwhile, Gambia’s Jonathan McKinstry warns against underestimating his team and acknowledges Kenya’s talent. The match promises to be competitive, with both teams eager to secure critical points in their group standings.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
