Kenya, Gambia in high-stakes World Cup Qualifier at Kasarani
The stakes could not be higher on Friday afternoon when Kenya’s Harambee Stars host The Gambia Scorpions in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The match kicks off at 4pm.
Both teams will be chasing three vital points to stay alive in a tough group that has already seen leaders Gabon (18 points), defending African champions Ivory Coast (16), and Burundi (10) set the pace in the qualification race.
Kenya sit fourth with six points, while Gambia are just behind on four. A win for the Stars would lift them to nine points, giving them hope of a late push for at least second place, while Gambia would leapfrog Kenya to seven points if they triumph.
The two sides last met in March in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, where they produced a thrilling six-goal contest that ended 3-3. Kenya staged a remarkable comeback in that game, scoring three times in the second half to deny Gambia victory.
Head coach Benni McCarthy, who will be leading Kenya in his 10th match since taking charge six months ago, says the team is ready for the big battle.
“We have the full squad present where I have noticed the sharpness in the past two days,” said the South African tactician. “The integration of the local and international based players has been impressive and everything looks good.”
Reflecting on the first leg, McCarthy highlighted the need for a stronger start. “The first leg was exciting, six goals in the second half. That was superb but also showed us that we need to score early in the match and control the game,” he said.
McCarthy has also spoken about his long-term vision with Kenyan football, saying he wants to build a team that will remain competitive beyond the current qualifiers.
“My plan is to build a team that is not only ready for the 2027 Afcon qualifiers but a team that can play in any top competitive football tournament,” he explained.
He pointed out that progress is being made, with Kenyans increasingly rallying behind the national team.
“This time has brought the football passion back in Kenya. It’s important to see how our local players are getting the needed recognition, not only from the media but also in the streets. I want them to have more of these flowers. It makes me proud together with the technical bench.”
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga, who will be key in leading the frontline, is equally upbeat.
“It’s going to be a good game. Everyone has been superb in training. We expect a tough match against Gambia. Their coach knows most of our players having coached Gor Mahia but we will be ready,” he said.
Olunga praised McCarthy for the confidence he has given the team.
“The coach has installed a lot of confidence in the national team. Every player, whether local or international, is getting the precious motivation from the coach who believes in everyone with no discrimination,” added the striker.
The atmosphere at Kasarani is expected to be electric, with Kenyan fans urged to turn up in large numbers to support the team.
With only the group winners guaranteed a place at the World Cup, and four best runners-up heading to the CAF playoffs, Kenya knows that dropping points at home would be costly.
As McCarthy and Olunga lead their men into battle, Harambee Stars will be counting on passion, home advantage, and the momentum of their recent fighting spirit to edge past a determined Gambia side.