South Africa legend Benni McCarthy is confident Kenya's Harambee Stars can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite dropping points on Thursday night.
The East African nation needed a late goal from William Lenkupae to ensure Kenya and Gambia played to a 3-3 draw in the Group F assignment played in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Musa Barrow and Yankuba Minteh gave the hosts a 2-0 advantage but Michael Olunga and Mohamed Bajaber brought Kenya back to level terms.
Despite Barrow's second strike, McCarthy's men ensured they get a point, which is their sixth in five games in the ongoing qualifier.
McCarthy says Kenya can't give up on their dream of playing in the World Cup for the first time in history, since other teams can drop points.
‘There are many points on offer'
“You will be a fool to give up. I think even the opposing coach will tell you that teams will drop points somewhere down the line. Gambia can beat Ivory Coast as much as they can beat Gabon. Kenya can beat Ivory Coast and Gabon. It is very open,” the former Manchester United strikers' coach stated.
“The teams sitting at the top took the opportunity to collect points early. We have five games to go, which means there are many points up on offer. We are hopeful.”
Kenya are currently placed fourth, six points less than leaders Gabon who beat Seychelles 3-0 in their latest outing. The two nations are set to face each other on Sunday at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.
Ivory Coast and Burundi are the other two teams above Kenya.
