McCarthy positive Kenya can still qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup

BENNI McCarthy is an optimistic coach. And that’s why he still believes his Kenyan national team can still qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup in north America.

- MIHLALI BALEKA.

McCarthy started his tenure in Kenya with a 3-3 draw away to Gambia on Thursday night as Harambee Stars came-behind from 2-0.

It was a spirited turnaround from McCarthy that saw them salvage a point to remain fourth in Group F with six points after playing five games in the group so far.

And with 15 points still up for grabs to determine the team that’ll finish top of the group and qualify for the finals, McCarthy says anything is still possible.

“It'd would be foolish to give up!” he said. “I think the opposing coach will tell you his aspirations are also that teams will drop points somewhere down the line.

“Gambia can beat Ivory Coast and Gabon, as much as Kenya can do the same. So, it’s still very open. Yes, the team at the top has taken the oppor-tunities, but there’s still five games to go.”

McCarthy will have to put his money where his mouth is — ensure that they collect full points in their next clashes, starting at home against Gabon tomorrow night to keep their qualification aspirations alive.