
According to Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy, Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter against Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium would be challenging.
While speaking during the team’s final preparations at Kasarani on Saturday, McCarthy recognized Gabon’s strength as the second-placed team in Group F, while also showing confidence in his squad’s capacity to perform well.
“It’s set to be a hard-fought game. Gabon currently sits at number two in Group F, and they have demonstrated their dominance. In the final game against Gambia, the boys showed off their abilities. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has excelled at elite teams like Arsenal, Dortmund, and Barcelona, is undoubtedly a star for Gabon, but we are setting everything up properly,” McCarthy said at the pregame press conference.
The South African coach also suggested possible alterations to the starting lineup following Thursday’s exciting 3-3 tie with Gambia. Bajaber Mohammed, Jonah Ayunga, William Lenkupae, and Masud Juma, who all entered the match as substitutes, could start against Gabon.
McCarthy commended their contributions, stating, “The substitutes who came on during the second half injected a lot of energy and a positive attitude. Two of them even scored, so I’ll be counting on them. They possess the ability to achieve the performance we’re striving for. ”
Ian Otieno, the goalie, echoed his coach’s excitement and played well in the Gambia game.
“Everyone is ready, and preparations have been impressive. We’re happy to be home for a while, and we’ll do our best tomorrow. Everyone is really motivated, and we still have a chance,” Otieno said.
William Lenkupae, who scored against Gambia after entering the game as a substitute, expressed his excitement over the chance.
“It’s an incredible accomplishment for me. My family has been very supportive, and this has been a long-held dream. I was aware this team was exceptional, and there is still much more we can accomplish. Supporters should expect possession-focused, attacking football and numerous goals ahead of tomorrow’s match against Gabon,” he stated.
Harambee Stars are keen on beginning their 2026 World Cup qualification journey with a win against Gabon on Sunday. The squad will subsequently host Gambia and Seychelles in September prior to traveling to Burundi and Ivory Coast in October.
With preparations underway, McCarthy and his team are committed to making a powerful impression at Nyayo Stadium, with fans anticipated to fully occupy the stadium.
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