Coach Johnathan McKinstry has credited his knowledge of Ghanaian football and his long-standing connection with the Ghanaian game for his sides stunning 4-2 victory over the Black Stars in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Scorpions produced a remarkable comeback at the Accra Sports Stadium, recovering from a two-goal deficit to defeat the four-time African champions on home soil.
Ghana raced into a 2-0 lead, but The Gambia responded strongly by scoring twice in five minutes to level the game before half-time.
The visitors then completed the comeback in the second half, adding two more goals to secure maximum points and maintain their perfect start to the qualifying campaign.
For McKinstry, his familiarity with Ghanaian football provided additional insight ahead of the crucial encounter.
The Northern Irish coach revealed that his connection with Ghana dates back to the beginning of his involvement in African football, while his continued interest in the country’s football has kept him familiar with the local game.
“My love for African football began in Ghana so whilst I’ve been away for a long time, I still know people here, I still look on football here even at club level. Maybe that also helped a little bit-with the win- because beyond the tactics, I sort of had an understanding of the culture a little bit of Ghanaian football,” McKinstry said.
The Gambia coach also explained how the momentum of the game changed after his team restored parity.
“When it went to 2-2, I had a feeling how the Black Stars might react in terms of the game might become less controlled then we will have our opportunities…so to win the game doesn’t necessary surprise me,” he added.
McKinstry was particularly pleased with the fourth goal, which effectively put the game beyond Ghana’s reach and allowed The Gambia to enjoy the final minutes.
“Getting a fourth goal in the end was incredibly pleasing. To be able to enjoy the few minutes was very pleasing,” he said.
The victory leaves The Gambia with maximum points from their opening qualifying matches and gives the Scorpions an early boost in their bid to reach the 2027 AFCON.
ghanasoccernet.com
