Gambia national team arrive in Nairobi ahead of Friday's World Cup qualifier against Kenya

The Gambia national football team has arrived in Nairobi ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kenya’s Harambee Stars scheduled for Friday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. (Photo: GFF Media)

By Amina Wako
Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The match will be Gambia’s second meeting with Kenya in the qualifiers, following their 3-3 draw in March at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.

Head coach Jonathan McKinstry confirmed the squad’s arrival and preparations at Kasarani on Tuesday.

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“This is a crucial match for us. Playing away is never easy, and Kenya’s home support makes the challenge even greater,” McKinstry said.

“It’s always nice to come back, but ultimately, we’re here for business. The aim is to collect three points. We expect a very hostile environment, with Kenyan supporters turning up in their tens of thousands as they did during the CHAN 2024 tournament.”

Despite the expected pressure from the stands, the tactician insisted his side is ready for the test. “All of that doesn’t count for anything. We’ve got to go on and put in a performance and look to try and win the game.”

Brighton & Hove Albion forward Yankuba Minteh echoed his coach’s sentiments, praising Kenya’s squad as formidable opponents. “It’s an important game for Gambia. Kenya has the home advantage and their fans behind them, so it won’t be easy,” he noted.

Minteh, who has risen from Gambia to the English Premier League, also shared advice for young footballers. “The most important thing is to focus, train hard, and listen to your coaches. If you do that, everything becomes easier.”

The match will be Gambia’s second meeting with Kenya in the qualifiers, following their 3-3 draw in March at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. That encounter marked Harambee Stars’ first outing under new coach Benni McCarthy, who replaced Engin Firat earlier in the year.

In the Group F standings, Côte d'Ivoire lead with 16 points, Gabon are second with 15, Burundi are third with 10, Kenya are fourth with six, Gambia are fifth with four, while Seychelles are bottom with no points.