The Gambia head coach Jonathan McKinstry has praised Kenya’s fighting spirit and resilience despite denting Harambee Stars’ hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The visiting team took a commanding 3-0 first-half lead against Benni McCarthy’s men at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Friday, September 5, 2025, days after a successful 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).

Determined to bag maximum points, the Scorpions, led by ex-Gor Mahia tactician, executed a clinical plan that outclassed McCarthy’s side before the home crowd. Kenya began the contest with high intensity, threatening early through William Lenkupae and Rooney Onyango. However, Gambia soaked up the pressure and struck first when Sheriff Shinyan converted a corner from Yankuba Minteh. Minutes later, Minteh doubled the tally following a Kenyan error in midfield.

The Brighton youngster wasn’t done yet; he turned provider for Musa Barrow, who slotted in the third after a defensive lapse, leaving Harambee Stars trailing 3-0 at the break.

McCarthy responded by shuffling his squad at halftime, bringing on Alpha Onyango and Manzur Okwaro for added energy, and later introducing Ryan Ogam. The changes gave Kenya more life. Eventually, Ogam managed to pull one back in the 81st minute, but it was too little too late as Gambia sealed all three points.

Quality made the difference

After the final whistle, McKinstry praised Kenya’s fighting spirit but highlighted the gulf in squad resources.

“Kenya’s work rate is remarkable. When they were 3-0 down, they never stopped running. Credit to their coaches and players. But in the end, we knew our technical quality would show,” he said.

The Northern Irish coach, who won two league titles with Gor Mahia, added that Gambia’s team is evolving. He said only a handful of the Gambia squad were regulars at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 18 months ago, adding that they are maturing together.

With the win, Gambia climbed to eight points, surpassing Kenya, which remains on six. McCarthy’s Harambee Stars now face three fixtures that carry no weight in qualification, leaving the South African coach with the challenge of reshaping the squad for the long term.