Kenya vs Gambia: 3 potent players who pose greatest threat to Harambee Stars
By Luke Oluoch, September 5, 2025Kenya national soccer team, Harambee Stars, is set to host Gambia in a crucial World Cup qualifier this Friday, September 5, 2025, in a World Cup qualifier tie at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani at 4:00 pm.
The two teams battled to a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first-leg meeting, with Stars rallying late to grab a point and stay just above their rivals in Group F.
Ahead of the return clash, People Daily Sports looks at the most potent player in the ranks of John McKinstry’s team that could pose a threat to Kenya’s chances for a win that could shore up their chances for qualification.
Yankuba Minteh
The Brighton ace heads into the clash against Kenya on fine form, after earning a Man of the Match accolade in Brighton’s 2-1 Premier League win over Man City. Despite being closely marked by Erick Ouma in the first game, Minteh capitalised on Kenya’s defensive lapse to put Gambia 2-0 up in the clash and proved a constant threat in the tie.
The winger will aim to continue where he left off as he eyes to translate his good start with his EPL club to the country. Minteh’s current form for Brighton and Hove is promising.
The former Feyenoord winger, who predominantly features on the right flank, boasts the best take-on success rate, completing 11 of 14 attempts, and ranks sixth for ground duels won. He also leads in recording the most touches in the opposition box (24) so far this season.
Minteh’s ability to take on defenders makes him one of the main men in McKinstry’s team in the final third.
Musa Barrow
With McCarthy and Harambee Stars focusing on Yankuba Minteh, the team should also keep a keen eye on Musa Barrow.
The Gambia’s No. 10 is arguably the face of Gambian football due to his longevity and experience on the national team. Barrow, who features in the star-studded Saudi Pro League side Al-Taawoun, is currently ranked fourth in the top scorer charts with nine goals.
He is behind former EPL duo Cristiano Ronaldo and Alexander Mitrovic and Karim Benzema. Barrow notched a brace against Kenya in the matchday five draw. He was the standout star in the Gambia-Kenya tie, showcasing his ability to unlock defenses and link play despite playing as the team’s point man.
He has proved instrumental in the campaign, getting Gambia’s qualifiers on track with a goal in their first win in Group F, a 5-1 win over Seychelles, and also in the 3-2 loss to Burundi.
The attacker extended his form with the double against Kenya. He will be eyeing a revenge of sorts from his penalty miss that turned costly in the draw against Kenya.
Abdoulie Jallow
The 26-year-old offers the same threat as Minteh on the wing. He has been a key player for Gambia in recent years, with impressive performances in AFCON qualifiers.
Among his exceptional abilities is his potential to stun keepers from range. He recently earned a move to the Swiss side Servette FC, signing a five-year contract until 2028 after a fine stint in the French Ligue 2 side Metz.