Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has shed light on his decision to delay making substitutions in Kenya’s 3-1 World Cup qualifying defeat to Gambia at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Kenya found themselves trailing 3-0 at halftime after goals from Sheriff Sinyan, Yankuba Minteh, and Musa Barrow put the visitors in complete control. Despite the early setback, McCarthy resisted the temptation to make quick tactical changes in the first half, instead opting to give his starting eleven more time to settle.
The coach explained that his decision was rooted in fairness to the players he had entrusted from the start. According to McCarthy, Harambee Stars had begun the match brightly, enjoying more possession and creating several early chances, including three corners. He felt it would have been premature and unfair to pull players off before they had been given a real opportunity to influence the game.
However, with the team conceding three times from costly defensive errors, McCarthy admitted he had little choice but to act decisively after the interval. At halftime, he introduced fresh legs and energy, turning to several standout performers from the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).
Ryan Ogam, who eventually netted Kenya’s only goal in the 81st minute, came on to add attacking impetus. Alpha Onyango was also brought into midfield to restore balance, while Manzur Okwaro’s introduction added steel and resilience. Job Ochieng and Boniface Muchiri later joined the fray, contributing to a much-improved second-half display.
McCarthy highlighted that the changes injected energy and composure, allowing Harambee Stars to play with greater confidence despite the daunting scoreline. He praised the impact of the substitutes, particularly Ogam, whose consolation strike provided a glimmer of encouragement for the future.
Reflecting on the match, McCarthy emphasized that the difference came down to individual mistakes rather than an overall poor performance. “Three mistakes, three costly mistakes,” he noted, pointing out that apart from those lapses, the team had shown decent organization and intent.
Looking ahead, Harambee Stars must quickly regroup as they prepare to face Seychelles on Tuesday, September 9. With qualification hopes already dashed, McCarthy is targeting a morale-boosting win to restore belief and momentum as Kenya builds for future campaigns
