Harambee Stars drew 3-3 with The Gambia after trailing by two goals. Ian Otieno’s penalty save helped keep the first half scoreless. Goals from Olunga, Bajaber, and Lenkupae contributed to the comeback, earning the team a point in Group F of the World Cup qualifiers.
On Thursday night, Harambee Stars exhibited remarkable resilience by coming from two goals down to secure a 3-3 draw against The Gambia at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan. The first half ended in a goalless stalemate, notably aided by an exceptional penalty save from Kenyan goalkeeper Ian Otieno, ensuring the score remained 0-0 by halftime.
In the second half, Gambia took the lead with a goal from forward Musa Barrow in the 56th minute, followed by an additional goal from Yankuba Minteh of Brighton just five minutes later. At this juncture, hope seemed dim for the Stars as they appeared to be on the brink of their third defeat in the World Cup qualifiers.
Nonetheless, St. Mirren midfielder Jonah Ayunga’s foul in the box prompted a penalty for Kenya, which was successfully converted by Stars captain Michael Olunga, bringing the score to 2-1 in the 69th minute. Just six minutes later, Kenya Police attacking midfielder Mohammed Omar Bajaber showcased his skill with a stunning curler that leveled the match at 2-2.
Despite an 84th-minute goal by Barrow, restoring The Gambia’s lead to 3-2, the Harambee Stars did not yield to despair. The team’s determination shone through as Australian-based midfielder Wilson Lenkupae found the net in injury time (96th minute), solidifying the draw at 3-3.
This match result leaves the Harambee Stars with a point from Gambia, placing them fourth in Group F. It marks head coach Benni McCarthy’s first draw in charge. For Kenyan football fans, the Stars’ display—characterized by precise passing, composed finishing, and a fighting spirit—signals promising prospects ahead.
In summary, the Harambee Stars showcased their fighting spirit by recovering from a two-goal deficit to draw against The Gambia 3-3. This match highlights the team’s resilience and potential, especially with significant contributions from key players like Michael Olunga and Wilson Lenkupae. The Stars’ performance offers hope for the future in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers, marking a meaningful moment in Kenyan football.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
