Harambee Stars, led by Captain Michael Olunga, prepares to face The Gambia in a crucial World Cup Qualifier in Ivory Coast. New coach Benni McCarthy emphasizes adaptation to his strategies as the team seeks to improve from its current fourth position in Group F. The match will be shown live on KBC TV.
The Kenyan national soccer team, Harambee Stars, is preparing to face The Gambia in a crucial World Cup Qualifier set for tomorrow in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The match will be broadcasted live by KBC TV at 10 PM East Africa Time. Due to the absence of CAF/FIFA accredited facilities in Gambia, the match will be hosted at the Allasane Outtara Stadium.
Captain Michael Olunga has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness to confront The Gambia, describing them as a formidable opponent. “Everybody is really looking forward to these two fixtures. We know the group is still open, and we are facing Gambia, which is rising in Africa and has a good squad, so it’s going to be a good encounter to showcase our worth,” remarked Olunga.
New head coach Benni McCarthy emphasizes a fresh start for the team, highlighting the need for patience as they adapt to his coaching style. Olunga noted, “It’s a new start and the dynamics are different; we have to adapt to the new style of play the new coach wants us to play. Hopefully, we can go and post a positive result.”
Coach McCarthy conveyed his excitement regarding his first World Cup qualifiers, stating, “I’m thrilled to lead my first two World Cup qualifiers. There’s plenty of hard work and dedication ahead, but we’re ready to embrace the challenge as a team.” After the match against The Gambia, Kenya will host Gabon on March 23 at the Nyayo National Stadium.
As of now, Harambee Stars ranks fourth in Group F with five points from four rounds, including a victory against Seychelles and draws against Burundi and Ivory Coast. Ivory Coast leads the group with 10 points, while Gabon and Burundi follow in second and third place with 9 and 7 points, respectively.
The squad for this important fixture includes:
– Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikhalo
– Defenders: Jonestone Omurwa, Brian Mandela, Daniel Anyembe, Amos Nondi, Erick Ouma, Manzur Okwaro, Ronny Onyango
– Midfielders: Anthony Akumu, Richard Odada, Ismael Gonzalez, Timothy Ouma, Eric Johana, Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, Ben Stanley Omondi
– Forwards: Masud Juma, Jonah Ayunga, Elvis Rupia, John Avire, Michael Olunga.
In summary, the Kenyan national soccer team is gearing up for a vital World Cup Qualifier against The Gambia, emphasizing readiness and determination under the guidance of new coach Benni McCarthy. With a dedicated squad and strategic goals, Harambee Stars is poised to make an impact in their qualifying campaign, showcasing their talent and resilience in the face of challenging competition. Their immediate focus lies on securing an essential victory as they aim to improve their standing in Group F.
Original Source: www.kbc.co.ke
