Pierre Aubameyang scored twice as Gabon overcame pressure from a packed Nyayo Stadium to defeat Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars 2-1 in a 2026 World Cup Qualifier match on Sunday evening.
Gabon started the game aggressively, putting Kenya under early pressure. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang found the net in the 16th minute, which validated their efforts. A well-delivered cross from Alex Moucketou-Moussounda caught the Kenyan defense off guard, allowing the former Arsenal striker to slot the ball past goalkeeper Ian Otieno.
Kenya thought they had equalized just two minutes later when Michael Olunga scored in the 18th minute, but the goal was ruled offside. Moments later, Mohamed Bajaber squandered a golden opportunity to bring the teams level. Olunga came close again five minutes before halftime, but his powerful strike hit the upright, denying Kenya a crucial goal before the break.
Gabon continued to look stronger in the early stages of the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 50th minute when referee Ibrahim Mutaz awarded a penalty after Kenyan defender Erick Ouma was penalized for a handball inside the box. Aubameyang stepped up and calmly sent Otieno the wrong way, making it 2-0.
Five minutes later, Gabon nearly extended their lead when Mario Lemina’s powerful shot was spilled by Otieno; however, the Kenyan goalkeeper recovered quickly to prevent further damage.
Kenya found a glimmer of hope in the 61st minute when Olunga finally got on the scoresheet. Ouma, following a dazzling run down the left flank, delivered a pinpoint cross that Olunga tapped in to halve the deficit.
Seeking an equalizer, coach Engin Firat introduced Jonah Ayunga and Duke Abuya for Timothy Ouma and Anthony Akumu. However, Gabon’s defense, led by Bruno Ecuele and goalkeeper Loyce Marcus Mbaba, held firm against Kenya’s attacking attempts.
Anse Jorgen Ngoubi Demba nearly restored Gabon’s two-goal cushion, but Otieno produced a crucial save to keep Kenya in the game. The Harambee Stars pressed hard in the closing stages, but their efforts were thwarted by Gabon’s resilient defense.
This loss allows Gabon to climb to the top of Group F with a vital away victory, while Kenya’s World Cup qualification hopes take a significant hit.
Despite the setback, Kenya showed moments of promise, and with better finishing and defensive discipline, they could still turn things around in the qualifiers. The focus now shifts to their next match, where they will seek redemption and a much-needed victory.
