Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were officially dashed today after a devastating 3–1 defeat to Gambia at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The loss marks a painful turning point for the Harambee Stars, who now sit fourth in Group F with just 6 points from 7 matches, effectively eliminating them from contention.
The match began with promise, as Kenya looked to capitalize on home advantage and bounce back from recent setbacks. However, Gambia stunned the crowd with a clinical first-half performance, scoring twice before the break. Despite a spirited effort from captain Michael Olunga, who pulled one back early in the second half, Kenya’s defensive lapses allowed Gambia to seal the win with a third goal in the 78th minute.
Coach Benni McCarthy, visibly frustrated on the touchline, had hoped to rally his squad after a promising CHAN campaign earlier this year. But the gulf in composure and tactical execution was evident, as Gambia exploited Kenya’s midfield gaps and countered with precision.
With this result, the Group F standings now read:
- 1st – Gabon: 18 points
- 2nd – Côte d’Ivoire: 16 points
- 3rd – Burundi: 10 points
- 4th – Gambia: 7 points
- 5th – Kenya: 6 points
- 6th – Seychelles: 0 points
Kenya’s only win in the qualifiers came against Seychelles, with three draws and three losses rounding out a disappointing campaign. The gap between Kenya and the top two spots is now mathematically impossible to close, confirming their exit from the World Cup qualification race.
Fans at Kasarani expressed heartbreak and frustration, with many calling for a strategic overhaul of the national team setup. While the CHAN tournament had offered a glimpse of promise, today’s result underscores the challenges Kenya faces in competing at the highest level.
The Harambee Stars will next face Seychelles in a dead-rubber fixture, with pride and rankings the only stakes remaining. For now, the dream of seeing Kenya on the global stage in 2026 has come to a bitter end.
