After Draw Against Gambia: Kenya Qualification to World Cup Hopes Hang in the Balance Ahead of Crucial Gabon Clash

Kenya’s Harambee Stars kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive after a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan on Thursday night.

Kenya’s Qualification Scenario

The draw leaves Kenya in fourth place in Group F with six points from five matches. Gabon leads with 12 points, followed by Côte d’Ivoire (10) and Burundi (7), while Gambia and Seychelles sit at the bottom with four and zero points, respectively.

With five matches remaining, Kenya must capitalize on their upcoming home fixtures against Gabon, Gambia, and Seychelles before traveling to face Burundi and Côte d’Ivoire.

First Home Match in Over a Year

Kenyan football fans are set to witness Harambee Stars play at home for the first time in over a year when they take on Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium. The match kicks off at 4 PM, with all 22,900 tickets reportedly sold out.

Benni McCarthy, in his first home game as Kenya’s coach, emphasized the importance of securing three points to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Tactical Changes Expected

McCarthy hinted at possible squad adjustments to ensure fresh legs against Gabon. He praised Bajaber’s performance against Gambia and hopes for another impactful display.

“Hopefully, on Sunday, he saves one or two more for us, and this time for a win, not a draw,” said McCarthy.

Gabon arrives in Kenya on the back of a dominant 3-0 win over Seychelles. With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading the attack, Kenya’s defense will need to be at its best to contain the visitors.

Olunga’s Rallying Call

Captain Michael Olunga urged fans to turn up in large numbers, saying, “It’s important to play at home after four years. We promise to give a good account of ourselves.”

Kenya will need a victory against Gabon to stay in contention for a World Cup spot, with crucial fixtures still ahead.