Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy seeks to harness the experience of overseas players in the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gambia. The team, which includes few local players, is optimistic despite limited training time. McCarthy emphasizes the match’s strategy and importance of points, while Gambia’s coach Jonathan McKinstry warns against underestimating his team. Both coaches acknowledge the talent present as the teams prepare for this crucial encounter.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy is poised to utilize the expertise of his international players in the upcoming match against Gambia, scheduled for this evening at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The team arrived in Abidjan on Tuesday night ahead of the crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier and views this match as a strategic contest where precision is vital.
McCarthy believes that the overseas players, who have donned the national jersey before, will be instrumental in the encounter against Gambia. He expressed confidence in their ability to exploit their experience effectively: “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 emphasized the importance of securing as many points as possible from this tie, acknowledging Gambia’s capabilities while asserting their team’s intent to pursue victory.
The current squad, which departed on Tuesday morning, comprised only four local players, training under McCarthy just three days prior. Nonetheless, optimism prevails within the team regarding their performance potential. McCarthy stated that the players, including those based internationally, had their first full practice together on Wednesday in preparation for the game.
Kenya stands fourth in Group ‘F’, trailing leaders Ivory Coast by five points. In this match, McCarthy will face Irish coach Jonathan McKinstry, who has extensive experience in African football, including a tenure with Kenyan champions Gor Mahia.
Despite Gambia’s current last position in the group, McKinstry warns against underestimating their team’s capabilities. He remarked: “Nobody should be duped into thinking we are the underdogs in Group ‘F’ just yet,” emphasizing his team’s ambition to qualify should they gather maximum points from their remaining fixtures. He acknowledged the talent within the Kenyan side, highlighting his prior experience with several players.
Due to a lack of CAF-certified home venues, Gambia is forced to play its home matches in neighboring Côte d’Ivoire; however, McKinstry assures that this logistical hurdle will not hinder their performance. He asserted their resolve to perform at their best and secure crucial points in their matches.
In summary, the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier between Harambee Stars and Gambia showcases the strategic importance of leveraging experienced international players. Coach Benni McCarthy emphasizes the necessity of securing points, acknowledging Gambia’s strengths while also respecting their own team’s talent. Meanwhile, Jonathan McKinstry warns against underestimating Gambia’s potential, further heightening the competitive atmosphere of this crucial fixture. Both teams demonstrate determination as they vie for advantageous positions in Group ‘F’.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
