The Harambee Stars finally ended their home win drought in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a convincing 5-0 victory over Seychelles at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The result not only delighted the fans but also restored some pride after last week’s 3-1 loss to The Gambia.
Coach Benni McCarthy made six changes to the squad for this clash. Brian Bwire took charge in goal, while Manzur Okwaro filled in at left-back following Aboud Omar’s suspension. The central defense was anchored by Sylvester Owino and Collins Shichenje, with Alpha Chris Onyango providing additional cover. In midfield, Chris Onyango partnered Duke Abuya, while Ryan-Wesley Ogam was deployed as a false nine, supported by Job Ochieng’ on the left and Wilson Lenkupae on the right. Captain Michael Olunga once again led the attack.
Kenya started brightly, and it took only seven minutes for Ogam to put them ahead with a composed finish. Ten minutes before halftime, Shichenje doubled the lead with a header from Abuya’s delivery. Just three minutes later, Ogam struck again, registering his fourth goal in just six appearances for the national team. On the stroke of halftime, Olunga calmly converted from the penalty spot after Ogam was brought down, bringing his international tally to 34 goals—level with Dennis Oliech as Kenya’s joint second-highest scorer of all time.
In the second half, McCarthy introduced Ben-Stanley Omondi, Boniface Muchiri, and Marvin Nabwire, whose energy gave the team fresh momentum. The fifth and final goal came in the 68th minute, when Olunga rose highest to nod in Onyango’s cross, sealing a dominant performance for the Stars.
Although Kenya is already out of contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the win lifted them to fourth place in Group F with nine points. They now sit just one point behind Burundi and two clear of The Gambia. The Harambee Stars will complete their qualifying campaign with matches against Burundi on October 6 and group leaders Ivory Coast on October 13.
Photo Credits: Citizen.digital
