Benni McCarthy’s first match as Kenya’s coach ended in a 3-3 draw with Gambia. Kenya sits fourth in Group F, trailing behind front-runners Gabon, Ivory Coast, and Burundi. Other unexpected leaders emerged in the qualifiers, including Benin, Cape Verde, and Mozambique, as teams strive to secure spots in the 2026 World Cup.
Benni McCarthy’s debut as coach of the Kenyan national football team commenced dramatically with a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier held in Abidjan. This match positions the Harambe Stars in fourth place in Group F, while Gambia trails in fifth, indicating substantial challenges ahead to surpass front-runners Burundi, Ivory Coast, and Gabon.
In parallel developments, several unexpected teams, including Benin, Cape Verde Islands, Gabon, and Mozambique, have seized leadership in their respective World Cup qualifying groups. Cape Verde, leading Group D, achieved a narrow 1-0 victory over Mauritius through Yannick Semedo’s late goal, accumulating 10 points, ahead of Cameroon’s nine.
Mozambique claimed a definitive 3-1 win against Uganda in Group G, capitalizing on two crucial errors by Ugandan goalkeeper Ismail Watenga and a first-half red card for Kenyan Denis Omedi. With four victories in five matches, Mozambique currently holds a three-point lead over Algeria, the group favorites.
Benin took the top spot in Group C despite squandering a two-goal lead against Zimbabwe. Goals from Steve Mounie and Francisco Doku initially put them ahead, but Zimbabwe’s veteran Knowledge Musona managed to equalize. Benin’s goalkeeper, Marcel Dandjinou, prevented further damage, securing the draw.
Kenya’s equalizer came from 23-year-old William Wilson, who scored the last-minute goal, showcasing the team’s resilience. Meanwhile, Gabon leads with Denis Bouanga’s two-goal contribution, ensuring a solid 3-0 home win against Seychelles. Namibia triumphed 1-0 over Malawi in Group H, maintaining pressure on leaders Tunisia, who secured a win in a recent match.
Sierra Leone celebrated their first victory of the qualifiers under new coach Mohamed Kallon, defeating Guinea Bissau 3-1. They now lag behind Group A leaders Egypt, who hold 10 points. The qualifiers continue with 11 additional matches scheduled across the continent to determine representatives for the upcoming finals in North America.
In summary, Benni McCarthy’s inaugural match as Kenya’s head coach ended in a remarkable 3-3 draw against Gambia. The game highlighted the challenges Kenya faces in their qualifying group, which is currently led by Gabon. Additionally, notable performances by Benin, Cape Verde, and Mozambique across various groups have introduced an intriguing dynamic as the qualifiers progress.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
