Bayern-Ajax clash in Nairobi presents AFCON readiness test

The January 5, 2027 clash between Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam will provide Kenya with a crucial test of its readiness to co-host next year's Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Sports Elijah Mwangi has said.

The encounter, which will officially open the Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi, is expected to offer Kenya an opportunity to assess its sporting infrastructure and event organisation ahead of the continental showpiece.

“We have built the Talanta Sports City and we are almost done with it. That is why we have managed to secure a top-notch match between Bayern Munich and Ajax. We want everybody to know that Kenya has a world-class stadium.

“The two teams (Bayern and Ajax) have a huge global following and therefore, them coming here means we will be able to ride on that and brand the country positively through their platforms,” said Mwangi.

The Bundesliga record champions have previously played on African soil, having featured in the 2013 FIFA Club World Cup in Morocco. Bayern went on to lift the trophy after defeating hosts Raja Casablanca 2-0 in the final.

Ajax Amsterdam, meanwhile, has longstanding links with African football, particularly through its 21-year association with its former South African satellite club, Ajax Cape Town, now known as Cape Town Spurs.

However, the January 5 encounter is set to mark a historic occasion for the Dutch giants, as their senior team prepares for its first-ever appearance in an official match on African soil.

Beyond the spectacle of bringing two globally recognised clubs to Nairobi, the fixture is expected to offer Kenya an important opportunity to showcase its sporting infrastructure, strengthen its international profile and build momentum ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.