Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, saw their hopes for the 2026 World Cup vanish after a tough 3-1 loss at home to The Gambia. 

The game’s outcome was decided in the first half, as defensive mistakes allowed The Gambia to score three goals and take control. 

Although Kenya played better in the second half and even scored a late goal, it wasn’t enough to change the result. 

This defeat marks the end of Kenya’s World Cup journey for this cycle, and the team will now concentrate on improving their defense and preparing for their upcoming matches and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The match began with early promise for the home side, with striker William Lenkupae having a shot go just wide in the opening minutes. 

However, The Gambia quickly took control, punishing Kenya’s porous defense. 

In the 12th minute, defender Sheriff Sinyan headed in a corner to give the visitors the lead.

The Scorpions extended their advantage in the 26th minute when Brighton & Hove Albion winger Yankuba Minteh broke through on a swift counterattack, calmly slotting the ball past Kenya’s goalkeeper, Bryne Omondi. 

Just before halftime, a miscommunication between Kenyan defenders allowed Musa Barrow to fire in the third goal for The Gambia, effectively ending the contest. 

Despite a header from captain Michael Olunga that was saved by Gambian goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye, Kenya went into the break trailing 3-0.

McCarthy’s tactical changes at halftime, which included bringing on Alpha Onyango and Manzur Okwaro to energize the midfield, brought some life back to the Harambee Stars. 

The team showed more composure and dominated possession in the second half, but their finishing was not sharp enough to mount a serious comeback.

The home side’s persistence eventually paid off in the 81st minute when substitute Ryan Ogam, a standout player in the recent Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), scored a well-taken consolation goal. 

Despite the late effort, The Gambia’s defense held firm to secure the victory. 

The loss highlights Kenya’s ongoing challenges and the need for significant defensive improvement going forward.

This defeat is a major blow to Kenya’s World Cup ambitions. 

The team remains in fifth place in Group F with six points from seven matches, with their qualification hopes now officially over. 

The group is currently led by Gabon (18 points) and Côte d’Ivoire (16 points), with Burundi and The Gambia also in contention for the play-off spot.

For Kenya, who have never qualified for a World Cup, the focus now shifts to their upcoming match against Seychelles on September 9. 

While their World Cup dream is extinguished, the team will be looking to build momentum and find form ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which they will co-host.

The win solidifies The Gambia’s progress in recent years, showcasing the talent of players like Minteh and Barrow.

With a victory over Kenya in this qualification campaign, the Scorpions will aim to continue their upward trajectory in African football.