McCarthy Remains Hopeful Kenya Can Qualify for 2026 World Cup
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has maintained confidence in Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their 3-3 draw against Gambia on Thursday.
Speaking after the thrilling encounter at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Ivory Coast, McCarthy expressed optimism, stating that Kenya still has a realistic shot at qualification.
“Anything Can Happen”
“We are hopeful. Teams do drop points along the way. Gambia can beat Ivory Coast, just as much as Gambia can beat Gabon. It is still very open, and if you take your opportunities well, anything can happen,” McCarthy said.
The match saw debutants Mohammed Bajaber and Wilson Lenkupae find the net, alongside Captain Michael Olunga, marking McCarthy’s first game in charge with an encouraging attacking display.
A Promising Start Despite Draw
Reflecting on the result, McCarthy acknowledged that while a draw was not ideal, he was pleased with the team’s overall performance and noted areas for improvement.
“A draw doesn’t help either us or Gambia, but I will take it since it is my first game in charge after only a couple of days with the national team. I’m happy with the point, happy with what I saw, and there’s a lot to improve on. But the positivity I have seen today gives me hope. With another day or two of training, we can be much better,” McCarthy added.
Kenya’s Current Standing
The result leaves Kenya with six points after five matches, trailing Group F leaders Gabon (12 points) by six points. Second-placed Ivory Coast has 10 points with a match in hand against Burundi, who are third with seven points.
Gambia follows closely with five points from five matches, while Seychelles remains at the bottom with zero points and a goal difference of -23.
Focus Shifts to Gabon Clash
Harambee Stars will now turn their attention to their crucial qualifier against Gabon on Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium. McCarthy will be seeking his first win as head coach to keep Kenya’s World Cup dream alive.
The team is expected to arrive back in Nairobi on Friday morning at 11:30 AM (EAT) to begin preparations for the high-stakes rematch against Gabon.
Kenyan fans will be hoping for a strong performance at home as the national team looks to reignite their qualification hopes.
In other news:Benni McCarthy Unveils New Harambee Stars Squad for Crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
McCarthy Remains Hopeful Kenya Can Qualify for 2026 World Cup