Brighton and Hove Albion winger Yankubah Minteh has admitted that Gambia will face a tough task when they meet Kenya’s Harambee Stars at Kasarani Stadium in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The Scorpions head into the Group F encounter knowing that only a win will keep their slim hopes of qualification alive. Kenya, on the other hand, are also desperate for three points, with both sides heavily relying on other results in the group to keep their campaigns on track.
The two nations last met in a dramatic 3-3 draw, a clash that saw Minteh get on the scoresheet. This time, however, the Brighton forward believes the home advantage makes Kenya a difficult opponent.
“The approach is very important. It’s going to be a difficult one because Kenya have the home advantage. Playing in front of their fans at Kasarani makes it very hard for any visiting side,” Minteh explained during a press briefing at the Kasarani Annex.
Kenya have proven strong at home, with their performance at the 2024 African Nations Championship showing that local support can be a decisive factor. With Kasarani expected to be packed, Minteh knows Gambia will have to dig deep to get anything from the game.
Minteh’s Journey to the Top
Minteh’s rise from the sandy pitches of Serekunda in Gambia to the English Premier League is an inspiring story. Discovered in 2021, he joined Danish side Odense Boldklub before sealing a move to Newcastle United in 2023. A successful loan spell at Feyenoord, where he scored 10 league goals and netted in the Champions League, boosted his reputation. Brighton then broke their transfer record to sign him for £30 million in July 2024.
Now with 15 international caps and five goals for Gambia, Minteh is seen as one of Africa’s brightest young stars.
Advice to Kenyan Players
Asked about what it takes to succeed at the highest level, Minteh emphasized faith, discipline, and hard work.
“You must focus and train hard. Three or four years ago I was in Gambia, and now I’m playing in the Premier League. The journey was really hard, but I trusted God, worked hard, listened to coaches, and stayed disciplined,” he said.
With his pace and fearless dribbling, Minteh will be central to Gambia’s chances, but Kasarani’s intimidating atmosphere could tilt the balance in favor of the Harambee Stars.
