By Greg Mulemi
Harambee Stars chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dashed on Sunday afternoon after they went down 2-1 at home to Gabon.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored in each half to ensure visitors stayed on toes with African champions Ivory Coast who are also favorites to qualify for the World Cup to be held in Canada, Mexico and the USA.
Kenya playing for the first time on home soil since November 2021, got off a positive start with Anthony Akumu testing Gabon keeper Loyce Mbaba with a long-range effort that was parried away.
The visitors replied immediately with Aubameyang linking up with Dennis Bouanga but a quick reaction by keeper Ian Otieno saved Kenya’s blushes. In the 15th minute of the game, Bouanga linked up with Aubameyang and the former Arsenal captain rifled a powerful shot past Ian Otieno. The “Brazilians’ controlled proceedings with Mario Lemina pulling strings in midfield.
Stars captain Michael Olunga missed a glorious opportunity late in the first half when he headed wide following a corner taken by Eric Ouma. Earlier on Richard Odada blew yet another chance, shooting wide with the goal gapping
Nyayo Stadium, filled to capacity set the right atmosphere for any football match with fans making the atmosphere carnival as early as 11am in the morning. The match had tickets been sold out.
A second half penalty scored by Aubameyang made things tough for Kenya but a nice move down the left side by Eric Ouma found Olunga in the box and he tapped home his 32nd goal for the National Team.
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy praised his boys and he credited Gabon’s experience to aiding them to victory.
McCarthy said, “I’m super proud of my players, the fight and the spirit. The (boys) gave their all.”
He also blasted the referees for denying Kenya numerous decisions that could have changed the tide of the game: “The referees made it difficult for us, we had similar situations (penalty shout against Olunga) but the ref decided otherwise.”
On Thursday, Stars drew 3-3 away to The Gambia and many fans had hoped that a victory would come their way but what came up was the difference between an experienced side and a side that is still rebuilding.
“We knew we had to deal with the pressure but we controlled it(possession). We are lucky to have won it because they also got their chances,” Gabon coach Thiery Mouyouma said after the match.
The results leaves Kenya on fourth with six points after six matches. Gabon lead the group with 15 points followed closely by defending AFCON champions Cote d’Ivoire who has 13 points with a game in hand.
