Harambee Stars’ chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup were officially ended after Gabon secured a convincing 4-0 victory over Seychelles in Group F of the African qualifiers. The result ensured that Kenya can no longer mathematically progress, bringing an end to their campaign.
Kenya had already faced a difficult route to qualification following a 2-1 home defeat to Gabon earlier in the year, which left them with a slim chance of advancing. For hopes to remain alive, Harambee Stars needed to win all four of their remaining matches and hope results elsewhere favored them. This scenario required Gabon to lose or draw multiple fixtures and Burundi to drop crucial points, a highly unlikely outcome given the form of both nations.
With Gabon moving to 18 points after the win against Seychelles, Kenya’s path was effectively blocked. Even if Harambee Stars were to collect maximum points from their remaining fixtures, they would still fall short due to their head-to-head disadvantage against The Panthers, having lost both encounters. Ivory Coast, who have four games left, are expected to finish top of the group, leaving Gabon well placed for at least a playoff spot.
For Kenya, the maximum tally of 18 points will not be enough, as the direct contest with Gabon ensures they remain behind. This mathematical elimination has confirmed the end of their World Cup journey, despite recent improvements shown during the 2024 CHAN tournament.
Attention will now shift to the upcoming fixtures against The Gambia at Kasarani Stadium and Seychelles next week. Although qualification is no longer possible, positive results are still important. Wins would help improve Kenya’s FIFA ranking and strengthen confidence ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Ivory Coast will also continue their push to secure automatic qualification, with their match against Burundi set to influence the group standings further. While the focus for Harambee Stars has shifted, valuable lessons and experience are expected to be carried forward into future competitions.
The campaign may not have ended as hoped, but progress under the current technical bench will be judged by how the team finishes the remaining qualifiers and prepares for continental tournaments.
