Benni McCarthy debuted as Kenya’s head coach with a 3-3 draw against Gambia in a World Cup qualifier. Gambia led first but Kenya equalized in stoppage time. Gabon leads Group F after defeating Seychelles, while Benin tops Group C despite a draw. Sierra Leone and Mozambique also found success in their qualifiers, showcasing a competitive landscape across Africa’s World Cup efforts.
In a thrilling debut as Kenya’s head coach, Benni McCarthy witnessed a dramatic 3-3 draw against Gambia during a World Cup qualifier. The initial half saw Gambia’s Musa Barrow miss a penalty, but the action intensified after halftime. Gambia gained a two-goal lead, but Kenya’s William Wilson equalized during stoppage time, capitalizing on a defensive error. Barrow redeemed his missed penalty with two goals, while Michael Olunga and Mohammed Bajaber scored for Kenya. McCarthy aims to lead Kenya to their first-ever World Cup and expressed confidence in their potential to surprise competitors.
Meanwhile, Gabon celebrated a commanding 3-0 victory over Seychelles, securing the top position in Group F with 12 points. Ivory Coast, the reigning African champions, occupies second place with 10 points and is set to face Burundi next. The selection of group winners is pivotal for securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
In Group C, Benin retained its lead despite a 2-2 draw against Zimbabwe, having forfeited a two-goal lead. Steve Mounie and Dokou Dodo initially scored for Benin, but Zimbabwe’s Marshall Munetsi and Knowledge Musona equalized. This group remains competitive, with Benin on eight points, followed closely by Rwanda and South Africa.
Additionally, Sierra Leone’s newly appointed head coach, Mohamed Kallon, led his team to a 3-1 victory over Guinea-Bissau in his debut. Sierra Leone sits second in Group A, trailing behind Egypt. Mozambique ascended to the top of Group G after a 3-1 win against Uganda, highlighted by a brace from Pedro ‘Pepo’ Santos. All matches for Gambia, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, and Mozambique were held at neutral venues due to stadium constraints in their home nations.
Benni McCarthy’s inaugural match as Kenya’s head coach ended in a 3-3 draw against Gambia, highlighting both the challenges and potential of the team. Gabon leads Group F, while Benin tops Group C amidst fierce competition. Sierra Leone and Mozambique secured significant victories under new leadership, exemplifying the unpredictable nature of the Africa World Cup qualifiers. The journey toward the 2026 World Cup continues to evolve, with critical matches on the horizon.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
