Gambia’s national team coach, Jonathan McKinstry, has shared his thoughts ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Kenya on Thursday, acknowledging the tactical shift in their opponent’s approach under new leadership.
Reflecting on Kenya’s past style of play, McKinstry noted their previous defensive-minded setup.
“They were a very defensive-minded team, and you could even call them a counter-attacking team. They aimed to score from a corner or free kick.”
However, with South African legend Benni McCarthy now in charge of the Harambee Stars, McKinstry expects a different challenge.
“But now, it’s a new coach and a new era in Kenyan football. Benni McCarthy has recently taken over, and historically, his teams, whether at AmaZulu or Cape Town City, have emphasized pressing and attacking more. He was, of course, an incredible footballer himself.”
McCarthy, known for his attacking philosophy, is expected to inject a fresh tactical identity into Kenya’s squad, shifting away from their traditionally conservative approach. His past success in club football, coupled with his vast experience as a player, makes him a formidable opponent on the touchline.
For McKinstry and The Scorpions, this presents a new challenge as they prepare to counter Kenya’s expected high-pressing and attacking approach. With both teams looking to make a mark in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the clash promises to be a fascinating tactical battle.
