By Fred Waguda
Kenya's Harambee Stars showcased remarkable resilience, battling back to secure a 3-3 draw against Gambia in a thrilling World Cup qualifier match played at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Ivory Coast, on Thursday night.
Kenya’s head coach, South African Benni McCarthy in his first outing since being appointed early this month, faced an early setback as Gambia surged to a 2-0 lead in the second half after a 0-0 draw before the break.
However, the team's determination shone through when captain Michael Olunga converted a penalty, narrowing the deficit.
Debutant Mohamed Bajaber who features for Police FC, then made an immediate impact after coming on, netting an impressive goal to level the score at 2-2.
The match's intensity escalated as Gambia reclaimed the lead with a goal in the 85th minute.
Yet, Kenya remained undeterred. In the dying moments of the game, another debutant, Wilson Lenkupae, delivered a crucial equalizer, ensuring the teams shared the spoils.
The hard-fought draw positions Kenya fourth in group F with 6 points, after five rounds of matches. Kenya will face Gabon at Nairobi's Nyayo national Stadium on Sunday.
Gabon currently led the group with 12 points after 5 games. Ivory Coast are second with 10 points albeit with a game in hand.
Burundi are third with 7 points, after 4 rounds of matches, Gambia are 5th with 4 points, while Seychelles are bottom of the group with zero points after 5 matches.
Kenya will aim to capitalize on their home advantage to bolster their qualification aspirations, when they face table toppers Gabon on Sunday.