Harambee Stars will resume their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup with an away tie against The Gambia on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
New coach Benni McCarthy will put his tactical expertise to the test against Johnathan McKinstry, who is well-acquainted with the Kenyan team, having coached Gor Mahia between 2022 and 2024. Kenya finds itself under pressure on Matchday 5 with five points from four games, trailing Ivory Coast (10 points), Gabon (nine points), and Burundi (seven points).
To keep their qualification hopes alive, McCarthy’s side must secure a victory. Here are ten key factors they need to focus on:
Get Selections Spot On McCarthy must select a well-balanced team capable of executing his game plan. The previous defensive approach under Engin Firat limited attacking opportunities, something the new coach must address by ensuring his starting XI reflects his attacking philosophy.
Solve the Goalkeeper Dilemma Kenya has struggled to establish a consistent first-choice goalkeeper. Brye Odhiambo and Patrick Matasi alternated under Firat, but neither is in the current squad. Ian Otieno, Faruk Shikalo, and Brian Bwire are the options available. The team needs a composed goalkeeper who is confident in handling crosses and can distribute the ball efficiently.
Score Goals The previous setup did not yield enough goals due to its defensive nature. McCarthy’s philosophy must encourage attacking play, with more chances being created. There is enough attacking talent in the squad, but a clear plan must be put in place to maximize their output.
Start Quickly A fast start will help settle any nerves and put early pressure on The Gambia. Scoring an early goal can dictate the tempo and boost confidence, especially in a crucial away match.
Play Through the Lines Harambee Stars have often struggled to build attacks effectively, relying on counterattacks and set-pieces. McCarthy must instill a strategy that allows the team to play through the midfield and break down defensive opponents like The Gambia. Playmakers such as Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, and Eric Johana can be key in unlocking defenses.
Utilize Pace on the Wings While adopting a more structured attacking approach, Kenya should not abandon their strength in counterattacking football. Having wingers and full-backs in their natural positions can maximize attacking opportunities from wide areas, providing crucial support to the forwards.
Get Olunga More Involved Michael Olunga has often been isolated due to defensive setups. As Kenya’s main attacking threat, he needs more service to maximize his goal-scoring potential. Creating more opportunities for him, whether through crosses or through balls, will increase the team’s chances of success.
Capitalize on Set-Pieces Kenya has struggled with poor deliveries on set-pieces, an area that can be a valuable source of goals. With players capable of aerial dominance, quality corner kicks and free kicks must be prioritized. On the defensive end, Kenya must also be alert to prevent conceding from set-pieces.
Protect the Lead Harambee Stars have lost crucial points from winning positions, such as their defeats to Gabon and the draw against Burundi. Learning how to manage the game when leading is essential, ensuring defensive solidity while maintaining attacking threats.
Get Substitutions Right McCarthy must be strategic with his substitutions, knowing when and whom to introduce to influence the game positively. The right changes can either secure a victory or help protect a lead in critical moments.
If Kenya can execute these key elements effectively, they will significantly boost their chances of securing a crucial victory against The Gambia and keeping their World Cup dream alive.
