Kenya Stages Dramatic Comeback to Secure 3-3 Draw Against Gambia in 2026 World Cup Qualifier
In a thrilling 2026 World Cup qualifier match at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya staged a dramatic comeback to secure a 3-3 draw against Gambia on Thursday. This marked the first match under new coach Benni McCarthy for the Harambee Stars.
Despite Gambia taking the lead three times through Yankuba Minten and Musa Barrow’s brace, Kenya fought back valiantly. Captain Michael Olunga converted a penalty, substitute Mohamed Bajaber scored a long-range effort, and William Lenkupae found the back of the net in the last minute to salvage a crucial point.
The draw leaves Kenya in fourth place in Group F with six points from five matches, while Gambia sits in fifth place with four points. Gabon leads the group with 12 points, followed by Côte d’Ivoire (10), Burundi (7), and Seychelles (0) after their 3-0 defeat to Gabon.
Despite Kenya’s early dominance in possession, Gambia capitalized on counterattacks with Barrow missing a penalty in the first half before scoring twice in the second half. However, Kenya’s resilience shone through as they clawed their way back into the game with goals from Olunga, Bajaber, and Lenkupae.
Looking ahead, Kenya will now focus on their upcoming fixture against Gabon at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, aiming to build on the momentum gained from this hard-fought result.
