Harambee Stars staged a dramatic comeback to draw 3-3 with the Scorpions of The Gambia in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.Gambia looked set for victory, ad they led 2-0 by the 61st minute courtesy of goals from Musa Barrow and Brighton and Hove Albion’s Yankuba Minteh.At that point, the game seemed beyond Harambee Stars’ reach.However, coach Benni McCarthy had an ace up his sleeve.He introduced Jonah Ayunga and Mohamed Bajaber—two game-changing substitutes who turned the tide for Kenya.’Misunderstanding’ led to Joseph Okumu being omitted from Harambee Stars squadThe most memorable moment came in the 75th minute when Bajaber curled a stunning shot into the top right corner to level the match at 2-2.It was a goal of pure quality, one that instantly endeared him to Kenyan fans and reinforced calls for more young talent in the squad.On his competitive international debut, the former FC Midtjylland Youth trialist impressed with his technical brilliance, agility, and ability to influence attacking play.But for those who follow the FKF Premier League, his performance was no surprise.A Winger with Exceptional Technical Ability##NAJAVA_MECA_8799822##Bajaber has consistently shown glimpses of a top-tier winger, with his greatest strength lying in his technical ability and agility.Standing at 177 cm, he may not be the tallest forward, but he more than compensates with versatility, playing effectively on either wing or through the middle.He thrives in offensive situations, where his skillset helps create and convert goal-scoring opportunities.His heatmap suggests that he primarily operates on the left wing, a position that allows him to cut inside and shoot—an ability he has mastered.Unlike most wingers in the Kenyan league, who rely on raw pace, Bajaber is a more technical player.He excels in tight spaces, using body feints, stepovers, and quick directional changes to beat defenders.Benni McCarthy baffled by Engin Firat overlooking Mohammed BajaberHis goal against Kariobangi Sharks in the 2024/25 FKF Premier League season was a perfect example of his skill.Receiving the ball at the edge of the box with Fredrick Alushula closing in, he created space with a deft touch before firing home—a goal that highlighted his composure and technical proficiency.Similarly, his equalizer against Gambia was a testament to his ability to operate in half-spaces.He received the ball, navigated past defenders with quick dribbles, and executed a precise shot—all while maintaining close control at high speed.Goal Threat and Playmaking Prowess##NAJAVA_MECA_8799821##Bajaber’s shooting technique is another standout trait. The data below shows his ability to score from inside and outside the box, underlining his confidence in front of goal. With seven league goals so far, he ranks among the highest-scoring wingers in the FKF Premier League.His offensive impact goes beyond just scoring. Bajaber wins an average of 2.75 fouls per game, according to Korastats—a testament to how difficult he is to defend.His move to Police FC has further boosted his numbers, with three goals in just six games compared to four goals in 18 appearances at Nairobi City Stars.The improved output reflects the better attacking structure at Police FC, where he plays alongside higher-quality teammates.Mashemeji Derby date confirmed after two postponementsEven at Nairobi City Stars, where he was the focal point in attack, Bajaber still produced solid numbers. In 1,119 minutes, he had 25 goal attempts, an xG of 4.01, and four goals.His creative ability was also evident, with 18 key passes and 19 chances created. However, he registered only one assist, likely due to a lack of clinical finishing from teammates.His 74% short pass success rate was the highest in the team, reinforcing his ability to link play effectively.##NAJAVA_MECA_8796748##Drawing Fouls and Defensive Contribution Bajaber’s technical skills often force defenders into committing fouls, making him an asset in winning free kicks in dangerous areas.While at Nairobi City Stars, he won 34 fouls, averaging 2.75 per match. Seven of these came in the attacking third, highlighting his ability to win set-piece opportunities.Defensively, he contributes an average of 8.45 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, winning 0.74 tackles and making 0.64 interceptions per game.While not a standout defensive presence, his willingness to track back and support the team adds value.Gor Mahia abandon Kasarani Stadium land, reveal plans to build new arenaA Rising Star in Kenyan FootballFormer Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat once claimed that Kenya lacked quality wingers, but Bajaber is proving otherwise.With his technical excellence, creativity, and attacking intelligence, he is redefining the role of a winger in Kenyan football.If he continues on this trajectory, he could become a key player for Harambee Stars in the years to come.
