Michael Olunga challenges for an early ball, sandwiched by Gambia defenders during the World Cup qualifier at Kasarani.©FKF

Social media users reacted fiercely after Harambee Stars’ shock defeat to Gambia, questioning squad choices and future direction for Kenyan football.

Harambee Stars were left reeling after a 3-1 defeat to The Gambia at Kasarani Stadium, a result that has officially extinguished any lingering hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The loss, coming just three days ago, has not only crushed dreams but also reignited debates about the future direction of Kenyan football.

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The disappointing performance followed so closely on the heels of Kenya’s spirited run at the Chan tournament—where the team fought to the quarter-finals—that many fans were left asking whether the national team is regressing rather than progressing.

“CHAN squad is way better than this team!” wrote Jeremy Gichuki on X, formerly Twitter.

At the centre of the storm is head coach Benni McCarthy’s squad selection.

Many fans and pundits faulted him for abandoning the Chan heroes who had delivered pride and resilience just a week earlier.

Only Abud Omar, Sylvester Owino, and goalkeeper Bryne Omondi were retained, while the rest of the squad was dominated by foreign-based players.

McCarthy’s gamble backfired. Richard Odada and Timothy Ouma started with energy but faded before halftime, forcing the coach to call on Chan standouts Manzur Okwaro and Alpha Onyango.

The duo’s introduction injected life and stability, but it raised a troubling question—why had they been benched in the first place?

The backlash on social media was swift and harsh. Critics questioned not only the coach’s decisions but also the role of foreign-based stars who seemed disconnected from the team’s rhythm.

“We will improve the Main team. We take the positives and move on. Ata England walipigwa na Nigeria 3 uko London. Sisi Chan inataka kutufanya tujione nikama tumekua top. Mccarthy Said we forcus on improving & making the squad better for Afcon using the world cup qualifiers.” — Ashman ○♤ (@Real_Ashman)

Benny got it wrong today fielding more so mid onto the next Seychelles on Tuesday anyways hatukuwa tuende World Cup 😂😂😂Ushelisheli should pay for The Gambia sins

Others were far less forgiving. Comments ranged from outright calls to drop foreign players to demands for a long-term rebuilding project centred on local talent.

“Let’s develop local talent. Foreign players bring no significance,” one user posted, capturing the essence of the debate.

On the pitch, Gambia took full advantage of Kenya’s shaky defence and lapses in concentration.

Sheriff Sinyan broke the deadlock in the 12th minute with a powerful header from a Yankuba Minteh corner.

The Brighton forward himself doubled the lead after capitalising on a defensive mistake in the 25th minute. By halftime, Musa Barrow had volleyed in a third, leaving the home side stunned.

Kenya created chances through William Lenkupae and captain Michael Olunga, but a lack of sharpness in front of goal cost them dearly. Substitute Ryan Ogam salvaged some pride with an 81st-minute strike, but the fightback was too little, too late.

The World Cup dream is over for Harambee Stars, but attention is quickly shifting to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

McCarthy has already indicated that the qualifiers will be used as preparation for building a competitive squad for that continental stage.

“We don’t need these foreign players, very useless. We were good with our local ones. I hope the coach learnt something,” tweeted Ben (@benKEofficial), summing up the frustration of many.

Kenya’s football future now hinges on whether lessons will be learned.

Will McCarthy double down on his foreign-based approach, or will he embrace the chemistry and energy that the Chan squad displayed?

The coming months will reveal if this loss was merely a stumble or a symptom of deeper issues.