Unlucky Harambee Stars fall to Gabon despite late resurgence ‎

‎Former Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored both goals for Gabon, who have now gone top of Group F with 13 points.

Kenya’s captain Michael Olunga scored the consolation, much to the relief of enthusiastic Kenyan fans, who filled Nyayo Stadium to the rafters.

Kenya's Head Coach, Benni McCarthy, expressed pride in his players' fighting spirit despite their loss to Gabon.

Speaking after the game, McCarthy acknowledged that he hasn't been with the team for long but was impressed by their determination.

‎"I'm very proud of their spirit… despite not being with them for long," said McCarthy.

‎McCarthy also revealed his plans to attend the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations as part of his strategy to scout for new talent.

‎"Of course, I have to attend and bring in more quality players who will be competitive against players like Richard Odada. My hopes for the World Cup? I haven't given up," he stated.

‎On the other hand, Gabon Head  Coach Thierry Mouyouma credited Aubameyang's influence in their victory but also acknowledged Kenya's strong performance.

‎"With the help of Aubameyang, we were lucky. Kenya showed a good display, and yes, I can say it's a good side," he noted.

‎McCarthy refused to blame Kenya's short preparation time - having played against Gambia on Thursday - or the defeat. Instead, he admitted that Gabon's experience made the difference.

‎The win sees Gabon top Group F with 15 points, ahead of Ivory Coast, who have 13 points. Kenya remains fourth with six points.

Ivory Coast could however recapture the top spot, if they beat Burundi on Monday.

‎To qualify for the World Cup automatically, Kenya must win its remaining four matches or aim for a top-four second-place finish to secure a playoff spot for the inter-confederation playoffs.

‎The match started with missed opportunities on both ends. In the 2nd minute, Aubameyamg failed to capitalise after Kenya’s goalkeeper Ian Otieno made a clearance.

Four minutes later, Michael Olunga missed a golden opportunity following a defensive mix-up but was denied a penalty after going down under minimal contact.

‎Gabon took the lead in the 15th minute when Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang punished a defensive lapse, slotting home and celebrating with his trademark front flip.

‎Kenya thought they had equalised in the 18th minute when Olunga found the net after a goalkeeping error, but the referee ruled it offside. Richard Odada then missed a great chance in the 21st minute, curling his shot wide.

‎Before halftime, Olunga struck the post from a fine pass by Bajaber Mohammed, while William Lenkupae squandered a clear-cut chance. The first half ended 1-0 in favor of Gabon.

‎Gabon almost doubled their lead early in the second half, striking the woodwork after an error from Odada.

‎In the 55th minute, Gabon was awarded a penalty when the ball struck Eric Ouma’s hand inside the box. Aubameyang made no mistake from the spot, sending Ian Otieno the wrong way to make it 2-0.

‎Kenya responded in the 70th minute, when Ouma delivered a pinpoint cross that Olunga converted to reduce the deficit.

The goal energise Kenya, prompting tactical changes as Jonah Ayunga and Duke Abuya were introduced to bolster the attack.

‎Despite late dominance in possession, Kenya failed to find an equaliser.

Ayunga and Lenkupae missed crucial chances, while Masoud Juma came on in stoppage time but could not make an impact.

‎The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 victory for Gabon.

‎Kenya will now shift focus to their next World Cup qualifiers in September, where they will host Gambia and Seychelles.

In October, they will travel to face Burundi and Ivory Coast as they continue their journey towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.