Nairobi was in full voice on Sunday but Kenyan supporters left disappointed after the Harambee Stars fell to visitors Gabon by a 2-1 score in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash.
Two goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave the Panthers enough of a lead to hold off a second half charge from their Kenyan hosts. After a positive start from both teams, it was Aubameyang who struck first in the 16th minute when Guelor Kanga's excellent pass picked out the Al Qadsiah forward to strike past Kenya goalkeeper Ian Otieno.
For Kenyan supporters the performance was too familiar to the 3-3 draw against Gambia earlier in the week...bright moments and plenty of energy but a lack of composure in the defense at important moments.
Kenya star striker Michael Olunga had a couple of excellent chances at the end of the first half but saw his 41st minute shot tipped off the post by Gabon keeper Joyce Mbaba before getting on the end of a perfect floated cross only to send his header wide.
The hosts paid the price early in the second half when a pass over the top of the Kenyan defense found Aubameyang whose shot was blocked by the arm of left back Erick Otieno. The former Arsenal star coolly sent goalkeeper Ian Otieno the wrong way from the spot to double Gabon's advantage.
Kenya found their footing and pulled one back ten minutes later through Olunga. An excellent combination started by Erick Otieno set up the left back for a low cross and the giant striker snuck in to poke his finish past Mbaba.
However, it was too little too late as Kenya's spirited comeback effort was denied by spirited Gabonese defending. Substitute center back Aaron Appindangoyé made the most crucial stop in the 76th minute, stepping in to block Duke Abuya's attempt from eight yards out after fellow substitute Jonah Ayunga won the ball and set up the Young Africans midfielder.
The full time whistle arrived to end another entertaining match but frustrating result for the Harambee Stars. Gabon seize top spot in the group for the time being and it is looking more and more like a two-horse race in Group F as both teams complete their fixtures in the March FIFA window.
Group F Table
GP | Points | |
Gabon | 6 | 15 |
Ivory Coast | 5 | 13 |
Burundi | 5 | 7 |
Kenya | 6 | 6 |
Gambia | 5 | 4 |
Seychelles | 5 | 0 |
The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.
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