Kenya’s hopes of making it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a major setback after a 2-1 loss to Gabon at a packed Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. The match, which marked Harambee Stars’ long-awaited return to home soil after more than two years, was filled with emotions, excitement, and, ultimately, disappointment for Kenyan fans.
Despite the electric atmosphere and massive home support, Kenya struggled to match Gabon’s quality, with the visitors stealing the show thanks to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s brilliant performance.
Aubameyang Punishes Kenya
Harambee Stars fans came out in full force, filling Nyayo Stadium with chants, songs, and unwavering support. The stage was set for a memorable night, but Aubameyang had different plans. The experienced striker, known for his time at Arsenal and Barcelona, proved why he is still a lethal forward.
He struck twice, silencing the home crowd and putting Gabon in firm control of the match. Kenya’s star forward, Michael Olunga, managed to pull one back, giving the fans some hope. However, despite pushing forward in search of an equalizer, the Harambee Stars couldn’t break down Gabon’s solid defense.
The result means Kenya now faces an uphill battle in their quest for World Cup qualification, as they sit far behind Group F leaders Gabon and Ivory Coast.
Benni McCarthy Reacts to the Defeat
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy did not shy away from admitting that his team lacked cohesion, something he attributed to the short time he has had to work with the squad.
“Gabon had better chemistry and understanding than we did,” McCarthy said in his post-match interview. “I’ve only had a few days with the team, and there’s only so much you can change in that time. It was a tough challenge.”
Despite the loss, the South African tactician was full of praise for the Kenyan fans, acknowledging the passion and energy they brought to the stadium.
“The atmosphere was incredible—one of the best I’ve experienced, even compared to Europe. This is what African football should feel like,” he said. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t deliver a win, but we will improve.”
McCarthy’s words offer some hope for the future, but Kenyan fans will be eager to see actual results on the pitch in upcoming matches.
Off-Pitch Drama: MP Peter Salasya Kicked Out of the Stadium
Away from the action on the field, drama unfolded in the stands when Mumias East MP Peter Salasya was roughed up and thrown out by an angry section of fans.
The lawmaker, dressed in an AFC Leopards jersey, was reportedly targeted because of recent political remarks he made that upset certain supporters. When he showed up at the stadium, tensions quickly escalated, and he was forcefully ejected from the venue.
It was an unfortunate scene that took attention away from the match itself, but it was not the only controversy of the night.
Security concerns arose after some fans stormed the stadium without tickets, breaking through one of the entry points. Additionally, there were reports of muggings after the game, raising concerns about fan safety at future matches.
What Lies Ahead for Harambee Stars?
With this defeat, Kenya’s qualification hopes are in serious jeopardy. They are now nine points behind Gabon and could fall 10 points behind Ivory Coast, depending on the outcome of the Africa champions’ match against The Gambia.
McCarthy has promised improvements, but for Kenya to stay in the race, the team must find solutions fast. Better teamwork, defensive solidity, and attacking sharpness will be crucial in their remaining qualifiers.
As things stand, Harambee Stars must regroup quickly, work on their weaknesses, and show stronger performances in their next fixtures to keep their fading World Cup dreams alive.
One thing is for sure: Kenyan fans will keep believing, but the team must now deliver on the pitch.
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