2027 AFCONQ: Gambia’s win over Ghana not surprising – Johnathan McKinstry

The Gambia head coach Johnathan McKinstry says he was not surprised by his side’s 4-2 victory over Ghana in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The Scorpions staged a remarkable comeback at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday, recovering from a two-goal deficit to secure all three points against the four-time African champions.

Ghana appeared to be in control after goals from Ernest Nuamah and Felix Afena-Gyan put the hosts 2-0 up.

However, The Gambia responded with two goals in five minutes to level the score before half-time before completing the comeback after the break.

McKinstry, who has a long-standing connection with Ghanaian football, said he had expected his team to have opportunities once the hosts lost control of the 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,” he said.

“Maybe that also helped a little bit with the win, because beyond the tactics, I sort of had an understanding of the culture and a little bit of Ghanaian football.

“When it went to 2-2, I had a feeling that the Black Stars might react in terms of the game becoming less controlled, then we will have our opportunities.

“So to win the game doesn’t necessarily surprise me.”

McKinstry was particularly pleased with his side’s ability to add a fourth goal and see out the victory in the closing stages.

“Getting a fourth goal in the end was incredibly pleasing. To be able to enjoy the few minutes was very pleasing,” he added.

The victory leaves The Gambia on six points from their opening two Group C matches.

The Scorpions will next face Côte d’Ivoire in a double-header in October.