Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has praised Kenya Police midfielder Mohammed Bajaber for his outstanding performance against Gambia.

The debutant scored a stunning goal as Kenya fought back to earn a point in a 3-3 draw in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, during a 2026 World Cup qualifier.

McCarthy said he is happy for Bajaber, who came on in the second half and scored the second goal.

“I met him when we had the minicamp with the local players, and he impressed me very much. I like players who are brave and not afraid to make mistakes.

“You can see what he is trying to do, and if he gets it right, then it will be amazing. These are the kind of players you want on your team because you know they will not fail. He will get it right, and I love players who are like that.”

“I am glad I gave him the opportunity. He shows Kenya and the coaches, who were here before, what they missed out on and what they could have had.”

“I am happy for him. Hopefully, he will get better and better. He loves to work, improve, and learn. I like that about players because they end up helping themselves become better,” McCarthy said as quoted by a local publication.

Mariga confident

Meanwhile, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga is confident that Harambee Stars will shine against Gabon.

“I want them to support our team and come in large numbers and support, and I think we shall do well. For this one, I’m very confident.

“I think we have a good team for now. When I’m with the team, I don’t think I’m the vice president; I’m an ex-player and I love to mingle with the team and to talk to the team, to know their challenges, and to give them some advice. I’ve been there, and I know the challenges they go through. I think when I’m with them, I’m a legend, and I talk to them,” Mariga said as quoted by a local publication.

Kenya will host Gabon on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Nyayo Stadium.