Harambee Stars’ head coach Benni McCarthy plans to change the starting lineup for the World Cup qualifier against Gabon. Emphasizing player recovery and bench strength, he noted the performance against Gambia as promising. The Stars currently sit fourth in Group F after a thrilling match that ended in a draw, showcasing both resilience and new talents.
In preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Gabon, Harambee Stars’ head coach Benni McCarthy announced plans to modify the starting eleven. He intends to give opportunities to players who contributed off the bench during the recent 3-3 draw against Gambia, emphasizing a strategy to rely on those who have been eager to play.
McCarthy highlighted the need for effective recovery leading up to the game on Sunday, stating, “For Sunday’s game, it is about recovering as best possible.” He expressed confidence in the capabilities of both the first half team and the bench players to deliver a strong performance against Gabon.
The team’s recent match against Gambia showcased a dramatic series of events, including Ian Otieno’s penalty save and Mohammed Bajaber’s remarkable debut goal. The match concluded with another debut, William Lenkupae, scoring a late equalizer that captured the excitement of both fans and the coaching staff alike.
Expressing optimism about his coaching debut, McCarthy stated, “Overall, I think the draw doesn’t help either us or Gambia… but considering it’s my first match in charge, I would take it.” He is enthusiastic about the team’s potential for improvement given more training. Following the draw, the Stars currently hold fourth place in Group F, trailing Burundi by one point.
In conclusion, Benni McCarthy’s strategic adjustments to the Harambee Stars’ starting lineup reflect an intent to maximize player contributions and enhance team performance. The thrilling elements of their last match highlight the team’s resilience and potential, which McCarthy aims to develop further. As the Stars prepare for their upcoming game, recovering effectively and harnessing their newly acquired experience will be crucial in the quest for World Cup qualification.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
