Harambee Stars face mounting pressure in their 2026 World Cup qualifier as they prepare for a crunch match against The Gambia on March 20. The Gambia, despite being considered underdogs due to their lower FIFA ranking, are eager to challenge Kenya and claim maximum points in the match.
Gambia’s head coach, Johnathan McKinstry, has spoken confidently about his team’s prospects, emphasizing their desire to go toe-to-toe with Harambee Stars in the qualifier. McKinstry, who has previously coached Uganda Cranes and Gor Mahia, noted that while Gambia’s low ranking places them at a disadvantage, they will use their past performances as motivation to give the Kenyan side a tough match.
“We are going into two very different games, and both teams are ranked above us, so we have to take them both seriously,” McKinstry said. “Ivory Coast are ranked around 44 or 45 in the world, while Kenya sits between 105 and 108, so both opponents will present their own challenges. We need to approach these matches with caution and respect.”
The Gambia’s journey doesn’t end with their match against Kenya, as they will remain in Ivory Coast to face the African champions in a matchday six fixture on March 24. Despite their current position in the standings, McKinstry is optimistic about his side’s chances. The Gambia sits fifth in the six-team group, with just three points from four matches, while Ivory Coast leads the table with 10 points. Gabon follows in second place with nine points, Burundi holds third with seven points, and Kenya is in fourth with five points. Seychelles remains at the bottom with no points.
McKinstry has urged his team to take a cautious approach against Harambee Stars, despite their struggles in the qualifiers. Kenya’s newly appointed head coach, Benni McCarthy, has only had limited time to train with the locally-based players, which has added another layer of unpredictability to the match. However, McKinstry understands the quality that Harambee Stars possess and recognizes their ability to cause problems on the pitch when it matters most.
“The idea that it is very easy to look at Ivory Coast in the second game and think that Kenya might be simpler, that is not necessarily true,” McKinstry said. “Both teams represent very different challenges, and we need to take each game as it comes, treating both with the same level of respect and intensity.”
Harambee Stars are well aware of the stakes ahead, and their preparations for the must-win match are in full swing. McKinstry’s call for a measured approach is a reflection of the Gambia’s determination to make a statement in the group. Even with limited preparation time, Kenya cannot afford to underestimate the threat posed by McKinstry’s men.
As the qualifier draws closer, Harambee Stars will need to shake off their recent struggles and deliver a strong performance. The pressure is on, and the Gambia will not make it easy for the Kenyan side. The upcoming clash is set to be a pivotal moment for both teams as they push to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
