Gambia Coach Johnathan McKinstry on 2 Reasons Kasarani Stadium Holds Special Place in His Heart

Gambia head coach Johnathan McKinstry has opened up on why Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium remains a special venue for him, ahead of his team’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Kenya’s Harambee Stars on Friday.

McKinstry, who took charge of The Scorpions in 2024, will come face-to-face with Kenya’s new tactician Benni McCarthy in a must-win Group F clash, with both sides desperate to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Speaking at the Kasarani Annex on Tuesday, the Northern Irish coach reflected on his strong ties to Kenya, having previously spent two successful years at Gor Mahia. He admitted the return stirred fond memories, but insisted his focus is firmly on business.

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“Yeah, look, it's always nice to come back, but ultimately we're here for business. For me, we can enjoy it afterwards,” McKinstry said. “The aim is to try and collect three points. We know that's not going to be easy because we expect there to be a very sort of hostile environment.”

McKinstry has urged his players to prepare for a tough battle in front of a passionate home crowd, noting the electric atmosphere often seen at Kasarani.

“The Kenyan supporters will come out in their tens of thousands to support the Harambee Stars. We've seen that through the CHAN tournament—very well supported games here at Kasarani,” he added.

During his stint at Gor Mahia, McKinstry guided the club to three titles, with two of them—the Charity Shield and the Kenyan Premier League—clinched at Kasarani. He admitted those memories make the stadium significant in his career.

“Obviously, Kasarani holds lots of good memories for me. My own last two games here were trophy-winning games in terms of the Charity Shield and the final of the league a couple of years ago,” he recalled.

“But all of that doesn't count for anything. We've got to go on, put in a performance, and look to try and win the game.”

Both sides drew 3-3 in Ivory Coast the last time they faced each other, but will be hoping to get the victory this time round.