Kenya’s Harambee Stars ended their long wait for a home win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a stunning 5-0 victory over Seychelles at a buzzing Kasarani Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
How did Kenya line up against Seychelles?
Head coach Benni McCarthy made six changes from the side that lost 3-1 to The Gambia last week. Brian Bwire replaced Byrne Omondi in goal, while Ronney Onyango kept his spot at right back. With Aboud Omar suspended, Manzur Okwaro slotted into left back after impressing in CHAN 2024.
Sylvester “Sili” Owino and Collins Shichenje anchored the defence, shielded by Alpha Chris Onyango, who came in for Richard Odada. He partnered with Duke Abuya in midfield, while Ryan-Wesley Ogam replaced Timothy Ouma Noor, taking on a false nine role. Job Ochieng’ started on the left wing, Wilson Lenkupae on the right, and captain Michael Olunga led the attack.
Who delivered the goals for Harambee Stars?
Kenya wasted no time as Ogam opened the scoring in the 7th minute. Shichenje doubled the lead in the 35th minute from an Abuya assist, and Ogam struck again three minutes later to make it 3-0.
Just before halftime, Olunga converted a penalty after Ogam was fouled, giving Kenya a 4-0 cushion. The goal tied Olunga with Dennis Oliech on 34 goals as Kenya’s joint second all-time top scorer. In the 68th minute, Olunga sealed the rout with a towering header from Onyango’s cross, completing his brace.
Despite being out of contention for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the result lifted Harambee Stars to fourth in Group F with nine points. They now sit one point behind Burundi and two ahead of The Gambia, who were set to play later in the evening.
Kenya will wrap up their campaign in October with matches against Burundi on October 6 and group leaders Ivory Coast on October 13. Ivory Coast currently top the standings with 19 points, narrowly ahead of second-placed Gabon.
By Yockshard Enyendi
