By Caleb Muoti
Micheal Olunga second half goal was not enough as Kenya went down 2-1 against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang proved to be the difference, scoring a brace to lead Gabon to victory.
His experience and clinical finishing left the Stars with an uphill battle throughout the match.
Olunga’s goal came in the second half, finishing off a fine low cross from Eric “Marcelo” Ouma, who had burst down the left wing to deliver the assist.
The goal gave the home fans hope of a comeback, but it wasn’t enough against a well-drilled Gabonese side.
Harambee Stars had earlier pleaded for a penalty in the seventh minute when Olunga appeared to be fouled inside the box, but the referee waved play on, much to the frustration of the players and fans.
In the second half, Aubameyang’s threatening run forced Eric Ouma into a handball inside the area.
The referee pointed to the spot, awarding Gabon a penalty that Auba coolly converted for his second goal of the day.
After the match, Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy did not mince his words.
“The match officials were against us today. The referee called for a cheap penalty. He was their 12th man,” McCarthy said in his post-match interview.
“We were playing against an experienced side, but I am proud of the players’ fighting spirit and determination,” he added.
Despite the defeat, the Stars showed grit and unity, backed by an electric home crowd that pushed them until the final whistle.
Harambee Stars are currently 4th in Group F registering 6 points, nine points behind table leaders Gabon who have 15 points.
Harambee Stars will now shift focus to their next round of 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.