2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Gambia’s win over Ghana was ‘not a surprise’ - Johnathan McKinstry

The Gambia head coach 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 qualifiers.

The Scorpions staged a remarkable comeback at the Accra Sports Stadium on Tuesday, recovering from two goals down to secure a convincing win against the four-time African champions.

Ghana appeared to be in control after taking a 2-0 lead, but The Gambia responded with two goals in five minutes to level the score before half-time.

The visitors then completed the comeback after the break to claim maximum points and maintain their perfect start to the qualifying campaign.

McKinstry, who has a long-standing connection with Ghanaian football, said his knowledge of the country's football culture helped his preparations for the match.

“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 match comfortably 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 Gambia have now collected six points from their opening two Group C matches and will face Côte d’Ivoire in a double-header next month.