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The Nairobian

Aubameyang brace sinks brave Harambee Stars

Football

By Robert Abong'o | Mar 23, 2025

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in action for Gabon vs Kenya at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, March 23, 2025 [Courtesy]

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's two goals propelled Gabon to a 2-1 victory over Kenya's Harambee Stars in a tightly contested 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier at Nairobi's Nyayo Stadium, further solidifying their position in Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying tournament.

Aubameyang, the former Arsenal striker now playing for Al-Qadsiah, opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a tidy finish.

He later found the back of the net again from the penalty spot in the 57th minute.

Despite a late attempt at a comeback from the Kenyan side, courtesy of a goal by Michael Olunga just two minutes after Aubameyang's penalty, the Harambee Stars could not overcome Gabon’s resilient defence.

Kenya's head coach, Benni McCarthy, made strategic adjustments following the team's previous 3-3 draw against Gambia. He fielded a starting lineup with key players like Mohamed Bajaber of Kenya Police, Central Coast Mariners' Wilson Lenkupae, and Al Duhail's Michael Olunga. The midfield saw Antony Akumu, Richard Odada, and Timothy Ouma take charge, while the defence was led by Gor Mahia’s Rooney Onyango and others.

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After the match, McCarthy expressed his pride in the squad's determination, acknowledging the challenges of his short tenure with the team.

“I’m very proud of their spirit… despite not being with them for long,” he stated.

Looking ahead, McCarthy revealed plans to attend the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations to scout for emerging talent, emphasizing his commitment to enhancing the team’s competitiveness. "My hopes for the World Cup? I haven't given up," he added.

Gabon's head coach, Thierry Mouyouma, praised Aubameyang's critical role in the victory while also recognizing Kenya's strong performance. "

The win elevates Gabon to the top of Group F with 15 points, closely followed by Ivory Coast at 13 points. Kenya sits in fourth place with six points, necessitating a string of victories in their remaining matches to maintain hopes for automatic World Cup qualification or a chance at the inter-confederation playoffs.