A bold update has been issued by Gambia coach Johnathan McKinstry as preparations continue ahead of the crucial clash against Harambee Stars in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The encounter is scheduled for Friday, September 5, at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani.
The Scorpions will be taking on Kenya in their second-leg meeting, following a dramatic 3-3 draw in the first leg played at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Ivory Coast. This time, victory is being targeted by McKinstry, who is determined to guide his side to maximum points in Nairobi.
It has been confirmed that The Gambia settled quickly after arriving in Kenya, with training sessions reported to be progressing smoothly. According to updates from camp, the tempo has been lifted in preparation for the fixture, with the coach insisting that every detail of their game plan is being sharpened before matchday.
Kenya’s strength has been acknowledged by McKinstry, who is fully aware of the threat posed by players fresh from a strong showing at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where Harambee Stars reached the quarterfinals. Because of this, training was resumed immediately upon arrival, with the focus placed on building confidence and ensuring tactical discipline.
Group F of the CAF 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers currently has Gabon leading with 18 points, while Ivory Coast sit second with 16 points. Burundi are placed third on 10 points, followed by Kenya with six points, and The Gambia with four. Seychelles remain bottom of the group with no points and have already been eliminated.
Only the group winners will qualify directly for the World Cup, while the runners-up will proceed to the second round and potentially compete in the inter-confederation play-offs. With the current standings, both Kenya and The Gambia cannot qualify automatically but still have an opportunity to fight for progress through the play-off route.
With determination evident in camp, McKinstry has made it clear that his side is ready to challenge Harambee Stars and secure a vital result that could revive their qualification hopes.
