Under Benni McCarthy’s management, Harambee Stars showcased a tactical shift in a 3-3 draw against Gambia during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. McCarthy implemented key substitutions, transitioning formations, and adapting strategies that highlighted the team’s potential renovation. The analysis delves into effective formations, attacking strategies, and defensive organization while contrasting the Gambian tactical approach.
A new chapter for Harambee Stars began at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, under the management of Benni McCarthy, a former South African international. His first task was to lead Kenya in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Johnathan McKinstry’s Gambian side, fresh off two FKF Premier League titles. This analysis examines McCarthy’s tactical strategies and substitutions that helped secure a 3-3 draw.
Kenya lined up in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation featuring Ian Otieno in goal, with Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma and Rooney Onyango as fullbacks. Daniel Anyembe played left center-back alongside Brian Mandela returning at right center-back. The midfield trio consisted of Anthony Akumu, Ismael Gonzalez, and Richard Odada, while John Avire and Eric Johana supported striker Michael Olunga in attack.
Conversely, Gambia opted for a 1-5-2-3 formation. McKinstry anticipated a different approach from Kenya and diverged from his typical 4-2-3-1 formation. Before facing Kenya, Gambia had conceded nine goals in four matches, yet they managed to score the same number. The momentum of the Gambian attack relied predominantly on Yakuba Minteh and Musa Barrow.
Kenya attempted to build up play with a 2-4-4 structure during goal kicks, focusing on unit progression through various phases. The strategy transitioned into a 3-3-4 formation, where Gonzalez and Odada alternated positions to facilitate play. Akumu frequently occupied the fullback role or a right half-space during buildup, affecting the offensive rhythm.
Gambia’s defensive line operated in a 5-4-1 structure, with Ali Sowe forcing Kenya’s play outward. Their center midfielders aimed to disrupt Kenyan possession, setting up overloads to isolate players and create goal-scoring opportunities. Gambia’s tactical setup sought to exploit switches and diagonal runs, earning a penalty after Otieno impeded Alieu Fadera while attempting to intercept a ball.
In the second half, McCarthy introduced winger William Lenkupae, reshaping the squad’s formation. Eric Johana transitioned to an attacking midfield role, pushing Avire to the left wing and reestablishing a 1-4-2-3-1 defense. Despite Gambia scoring first with a long-range shot from Barrow, Kenya’s substitutions began to show promise.
The second goal for Gambia echoed the first, illustrating the gaps between defenders invited greater success for their attack. After trailing, McCarthy made critical substitutions bringing on Jonah Ayunga and Mohammed Bajaber, shifting to a 4-4-2 formation with Olunga and Ayunga up front. This adjustment quickly paid off, resulting in a penalty leading to Kenya’s first goal.
With Gambia adopting a more aggressive 4-2-3-1 formation, they struck again soon after. Yet, in the dying moments of the match, Kenya salvaged a dramatic equalizer through a chaotic long throw that found Lenkupae. The match ended in a 3-3 draw, showcasing McCarthy’s tactical adaptability and raising hopes for a revitalized Harambee Stars team moving forward.
The tactical choices made by Benni McCarthy during the match against Gambia significantly influenced the performance of Harambee Stars, leading them to a hard-fought 3-3 draw. Through strategic substitutions, formation changes, and adjustments in response to Gambian tactics, McCarthy highlighted a promising shift in Kenyan football. The match underscores the potential of the national team to evolve from past disappointments, signaling a bright future under new management.
Original Source: www.mozzartsport.co.ke
