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Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has finally spoken out following Kenya’s painful 3-1 loss to Gambia in the World Cup qualifiers.

The defeat ended Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with their focus now shifting to the 2030 qualifiers.

It was a heartbreaking evening for Kenya, who had hoped to build on their impressive CHAN 2024 run, which saw them reach the quarter-finals.

They went 3-0 down in the first half, and their second-half comeback attempt fell short.

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As usual, Benni McCarthy’s team started the game with great intensity and came close to opening the scoring. However, they failed to capitalise, and it would soon come back to haunt them.

Michael Olunga draws criticism after Harambee Stars’ defeat to Gambia

Gambia’s Sheriff Sinyan scored with a powerful header in the 12th minute, courtesy of a superb corner from winger Yankuba Minte. Kenya equalised, but the goal was ruled out.

In the 25th minute, the visitors intercepted a pass and found themselves in a 2v2 situation. Musa Barrow delivered an incredible through ball to Minteh, who calmly slotted past Byrne Omondi.

Timothy Ouma’s poor pass was intercepted, allowing Barrow to make it 3-0 for the Scorpions, who ended the half on a high.

CHAN 2024 star Ryan Ogam scored a consolation goal for Kenya in the 81st minute, but the hosts were unable to mount a comeback to keep their World Cup dream alive.

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@EdwinNgany:

Why Harambee Stars’ goal vs Gambia in World Cup qualifier was disallowed

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The Al-Arabi striker had a few chances to score against Gambia, but it wasn’t his day. He had scored in Benni McCarthy’s first two games in March, against Gambia and Gabon.

Benni McCarthy shares why he didn’t use CHAN 2024 stars vs Gambia

Kenya will hope to end the September break with a win over Seychelles next week.

In a related story, we reported that fans criticised Michael Olunga and other foreign-based players after the Gambia defeat.

Fans felt they did not produce their best performance and should not have started ahead of CHAN players.

Three CHAN 2024 players started the game, with Ryan Ogam scoring Kenya’s goal in the second half.

Source: TUKO.co.ke