Wasteful Kenya held to a barren draw by Ivory Coast in WC qualifier

Kenya suffered a blow to their 2026 FIFA World Cup prospects after dropping two crucial points after they settled for a goalless draw against giants Ivory Coast on Tuesday evening at Bingu National Stadium in Malawi.

In a see-saw encounter, the visitors Ivory Coast threatened early in the game, with their first scoring chance arriving in the 24th minute after Al-Feiha defender Ghislain Konan delivered a long-range shot but missed the target.

Five minutes later, Kenya were awarded a free kick after Rooney Onyango was brought down in 18 yards, but skipper Michael Olunga shot straight to Ivory Coast keeper Yahia Fofana.

The captain was at it again, creating another scoring chance in the 37th minute after he dribbled past Ivorian defenders but shot wide.

In the 71st minute, Olunga was left one-on-one with Ivorian keeper, Fofana who cleared his effort.

Ivory Coast continued pressing hard and in the 85th minute, Brighton forward Simon Adingra delivered a fine shot, which was cleared by keeper, Patrick Matasi.

Following the result, Kenya remain third in Group F with five points from four matches, one ahead of fourth placed Burundi.

Africa champions, Ivory Coast, sit on top of the pool with 10 points, while Gabon comes second with six points.

Gambia and Seychelles sit at the bottom with three and zero points respectively.

Kenya hosted the game in Malawi due to the unavailability of Moi Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, which are being renovated for the 2027 AFCON tournament to be co-hosted by Tanzania and Uganda.