Gambia head coach Johnathan McKinstry has shared why Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium remains a special venue for him ahead of his side’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Kenya’s Harambee Stars on Friday.
The Northern Irish tactician will be coming up against Kenya’s new head coach Benni McCarthy in what is a must-win Group F encounter. Both nations are fighting to stay alive in the qualification race, and the clash promises intensity and drama.
McKinstry, who was in charge of Gor Mahia until 2024, admitted that returning to Kasarani evoked fond memories. During his two-year spell with the Kenyan giants, he guided the club to three trophies, two of which the Charity Shield and the Kenyan Premier League title were sealed at Kasarani. That success has given him an enduring connection to the stadium.
“Obviously, Kasarani holds lots of good memories for me. My last two games here were trophy-winning matches, so it is a place that played a big role in my career,” McKinstry said. However, he was quick to remind his players that the past counts for little in the present. “We are here for business, and the focus is on trying to get three points against a very tough opponent.”
The coach also warned his squad to be ready for the electric atmosphere that often characterizes matches at the venue. Kasarani is famous for drawing tens of thousands of passionate fans, creating a hostile environment for visiting teams. McKinstry stressed that the players must not be intimidated by the crowd but instead remain focused on their game plan.
The Scorpions know the task ahead will not be easy. When the two sides last met in Ivory Coast, they shared a thrilling 3-3 draw. This time, both teams will be desperate to collect maximum points to strengthen their qualification chances.
For McKinstry, Kasarani will always be a ground tied to personal achievement and special milestones. But sentiment will take a back seat as he prepares his team for what could be one of their most important games on the road to the World Cup.
