Aubameyang’s Brace Sinks Kenya as Harambee Stars Suffer World Cup Setback

Harambee Stars’ hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup took a major hit following a 2-1 defeat to Gabon at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted twice to seal the victory, leaving Kenya with an uphill task in Group F.

How the Game Unfolded

Kenya, playing at home for the first time in years, started under pressure as Gabon forced several set-pieces. The visitors capitalized in the 16th minute when Alex Moucketou-Moussounda delivered a precise cross, and Aubameyang finished clinically past Ian Otieno.

The Harambee Stars thought they had responded immediately, but Michael Olunga’s strike in the 18th minute was ruled offside. Mohamed Bajaber then squandered a golden opportunity to equalize moments later. Olunga came close again before halftime, but his powerful effort rattled the post.

Gabon doubled their lead early in the second half when Aubameyang calmly slotted home a penalty in the 50th minute after Erick Ouma was penalized for a handball. Kenya gave the home crowd hope in the 61st minute as Olunga completed a spectacular cross from Ouma.

Despite Kenya pushing hard for an equalizer, Gabon’s defense held firm, ensuring they claimed all three points. The loss leaves Kenya fourth in Group F with six points, trailing Gabon (15 points), Ivory Coast (13 points with a game in hand), and Burundi (7 points).

What’s Next for Harambee Stars?

Kenya's chances are now limited because each group can only earn one automatic qualification slot. In the hopes that Gabon and Ivory Coast will drop points, they need to win their final four games against Gambia, Seychelles, Burundi, and Ivory Coast.

Now that the path to North America 2026 is more challenging, the Harambee Stars need to perform flawlessly in the forthcoming games while hoping for positive outcomes elsewhere to maintain their hopes of winning the World Cup.