Gambia’s 4-2 win over Ghana in Accra stunned many, but not Jonathan McKinstry. The Gambia head coach said he expected the result, pointing to his time in Ghana as a major advantage.
The match left Ghana bottom of Group C with zero points after two qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, The Gambia took the lead in the group with six points.
McKinstry, who coached at the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana, said his experience gave him insight into the Black Stars’ football culture. This helped him predict how Ghana would react after falling behind.
“Beyond the tactics, I had an understanding of the culture,” McKinstry said. “When it went to 2-2, I knew how the Black Stars might react, how the game might become less controlled and that we would have our opportunities.”
Ghana led 2-0 before The Gambia fought back to level the score. After the equaliser, McKinstry expected Ghana’s organisation to slip, creating chances for the visitors.
“You saw at the end, when they were flooding forward with seven or eight players trying to get a goal, and that gave us more opportunities,” he added.
The Northern Irish coach said the team’s fourth goal made the win sweeter because away wins in African football are hard to come by.
“Winning the game did not surprise me, but getting the fourth goal was very pleasing because these games away from home on the continent usually mean you have to hold out for the win. To be able to enjoy the last few minutes was pleasing,” McKinstry said.
For Ghana, the loss is a serious setback. They must now win both their upcoming matches against Somalia in November to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The defeat in Accra raises questions about Ghana’s preparation and response under pressure. Meanwhile, The Gambia’s performance shows how local knowledge and tactical patience can turn the tide in a tough away game.
McKinstry’s read of Ghana’s reaction after conceding proved spot on. The Black Stars pushed forward aggressively, leaving gaps that The Gambia exploited to score twice more.
That tactical patience and understanding of the opponent’s mindset gave The Gambia an edge rarely seen in such high-stakes matches on African soil.
According to Joy Online.
