By: Zackline Colley
The Gambia’s national football team head coach, Jonathan McKinstry, has highlighted the challenges his side faces in their upcoming fixtures against Tunisia and Comoros, emphasizing the different tactical approaches required for each match.
Speaking ahead of the crucial matches, McKinstry described the contrasting styles of the two opponents, noting that each game would demand specific strategies. “They’re two very different games,” McKinstry said. “Comoros are a team that is extremely hard-working. They’re extremely together. They are reasonably direct as a team. They don’t play too much tippy-tappy football. They like to go forward quite quickly.”
McKinstry stressed the importance of neutralizing Comoros’ direct style of play by disrupting their passing game. “If players are unable to play those direct passes, then that threat of runs in behind is somewhat limited,” he noted. “For us, it’s about getting our important players on the ball as often as possible in the best positions on the field. And I think if we do that, we’ll be able to cause Comoros a lot of problems.”
Turning his attention to Tunisia, McKinstry acknowledged the North African side’s experience and potential strategic shift under their new coach. “Tunisia has a very experienced squad, although under a new coach. So obviously, their new coach comes in. These are his first games. And so you will see maybe a strategic change from Tunisia.”
The coach underscored the need for his team to adapt quickly and exploit their strengths, particularly in speed and creativity, while being cautious of Tunisia’s ability to capitalize on space. “We know that Tunisia is a side that doesn’t feel a lot of pressure in games. So we need to make sure that we use our strengths, our speed, our guile, our creativity to cause them problems,” McKinstry explained. “But at the same time, understanding that if we give them too much space, they’ve got players who would punish us in those situations.”
McKinstry also highlighted the importance of squad rotation, given the differing demands of the two matches. He pointed to the inclusion of new players like Lamin Saidy, praising the young goalkeeper’s confidence and skill with the ball. “He’s a very confident goalkeeper. He’s very comfortable with his feet as well. He wants to play; he wants to pass the ball,” McKinstry said of Saidy. “Someone who has a really high save ratio. So someone, I think, at 23 deserves this opportunity to come in and learn from the likes of Ibrahima and Sheikh Sibi, but also to compete for a place on the team.”
As The Gambia prepares for these vital fixtures, McKinstry’s emphasis on tactical flexibility and the integration of new talent will be key to the Scorpions’ success. The matches against Tunisia and Comoros are expected to be intense, with both sides posing unique challenges that the Scorpions will need to navigate carefully.
