Aubameyang fades Harambee Stars as Kenya's World Cup hopes sink

Pierre Emerick Aubameyang inevitably became the difference maker as Gabon beat Kenya's Harambee Stars 2-1 in their 2026 World Cup Qualifying match at the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.

Aubameyang, an English Premier League top scorer in the past, took advantage of a mixup in Kenya's defence to take a 1-0 lead on 16 minutes and then added a second early in the second half through a penalty.

Michael Olunga pulled one back for Kenya but the Gabonese defended stoutly from then henceforth to force a win.

Backed by a packed Nyayo National Stadium, the home side who one could sense were wary of the crowd expectations, started in nervy fashion which saw Guelor Kanga test Kenyan keeper Ian Otieno in the opening exchanges.

Kanga would turn provider for Aubameyang whose side footed finish past the stretching Otieno to hand the Gabonese an early lead.

Nyayo Stadium was stunned. However, it only lifted the home side's spirits as they went on offensive forays into the Gabon half seeking an equalizer with intent.

Olunga thought he had given the home side parity after slotting home from Wilson Lenkupae's shot but he was adjudged to be offside.

Just before halftime, the Kenyans had two opportunities via Olunga, who hit the post with a powerful shot and midfielder Richard Odada, but he shot wide of the Gabon goal.

The second half begun as the first had.

Gabon dominated proceedings and took a two goal lead on 52 minutes after Eric Ouna was adjudged to have handled a cross from the marauding Aubameyang who then stepped up to score the ensuing penalty to make it 2-0.

Lenkupae had a great opportunity five minutes later to halve the deficit but he shot over the bar to the dismay of the home crowd.

Olunga however, gave the home fans something to celebrate after tucking home a cross from the overlapping Ouma who showed great skill and pace to set up the goal.

The three points mean that Gabon now top Group F with 15 points.

Kenya has six with just four games left to play.

The result is a bitter blow for new coach Benni McCarthy who will now know the enormity of his task in handling the Stars as he settles into his new role.

On Thursday, Kenya drew 3-3 with Gambia in another World Cup qualifier played in Abidjan Ivory Coast.