Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has named his starting XI for their crucial World Cup qualifier against Gambia in Ivory Coast.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars are set to face off against Gambia’s Scorpions in a crucial international fixture as part of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
The highly anticipated clash is scheduled for Thursday, March 20, at 10:00 pm East African Time (EAT) at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpe Olympic Stadium in Ivory Coast.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars take on Gambia Scorpions in the 2026 World Cup qualifier. Can they emerge victorious?
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Harambee Stars coach Benni Mcarthy has named his starting line-up for this vital encounter, with goalkeeper Ian Otieno set to start between the sticks.
The defensive backline will see Daniel Anyembe and Eric Ouma operating as full-backs, while Brian Mandela and Ronney Onyango will form the central defensive partnership.
In midfield, Anthony Akumu will anchor the team, providing stability and control in the center of the park. Ismael Gonzalez and Richard Odada will add creativity and work rate to the midfield, as they look to dictate the pace of the game.
Kenya’s attack will be spearheaded by Michael Olunga, the team captain and one of Africa’s most prolific strikers. He will be supported by Eric Johana and John Avire, both of whom bring pace and skill to the attacking third.
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The Joe Kadenge stadium, formerly City stadium, which previously served as home ground for Gor Mahia is expected to be in usable condition following renovations.
Meanwhile, key substitutes include goalkeepers Brian Bwire and Faruk Shikalo, along with Manzur Owkaro, Jonestone Omorwa, and Ben Stanley Omondi in defense. The attacking reinforcements on the bench include Masud Juma, Wilson Lenkupae, Jonah Ayunga, Timothy Ouma, Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, and Elvis Rupia.
Kenya currently sits fourth in Group F, making this a must-win match to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
A victory would provide much-needed momentum as they continue their journey towards securing a historic first-ever World Cup appearance.
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Former Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi has shed light on Benni McCarthy’s thoughts on the quality of the Kenyan national football team.
With both teams eager to claim three points, fans can expect a thrilling and competitive showdown under the lights in Ivory Coast.
Harambee Stars starting XI v Gambia:
Ian Otieno, Daniel Anyembe, Brian Mandela, Ronney Onyango, Eric Ouma, Anthony Akumu, Ismael Gonzalez, Richard Odada, John Avire, Eric Johana, Michael Olunga.
Substitutes: Brian Bwire, Faruk Shikalo, Manzur Owkaro, Jonestone Omorwa, Ben Stanley Omondi, Masud Juma, Wilson Lenkupae, Jonah Ayunga, Timothy Ouma, Duke Abuya, Mohammed Bajaber, Elvis Rupia.
