WCQ: Benni McCarthy suffers his first loss as Gabon defeats Kenya.

Gabon strengthened their bid for a spot in the 2026 World Cup finals with a 2-1 victory over Kenya at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted twice for the visitors, while Michael Olunga scored Kenya’s lone goal.

Despite starting as the more aggressive side, Kenya fell behind in the 16th minute when Aubameyang slotted home. Assisted by Guelor Kanga, the former Arsenal striker fired a low shot past Ian Otieno. Goalkeeper Richards Bay stretched in an attempt to save it but was unable to keep the ball out.

Kenya responded with determination and thought they had equalized in the 19th minute when Olunga tapped in a pass from William Lenkupae, only for the offside flag to nullify the goal. Shortly after, Richard Odada had a chance to level the score but sent his shot wide from close range, allowing Gabon to breathe a sigh of relief.

Encouraged by Benni McCarthy from the touchline, the Harambee Stars kept pushing. In the 40th minute, Olunga came close again, but his effort struck the post, sparing the visitors as Kenya pressed hard toward halftime.

Gabon extended their lead in the 52nd minute when Aubameyang converted a penalty after Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma was penalized for a handball inside the box.

Kenya finally pulled one back in the 62nd minute when Olunga connected with a low cross from Ouma, guiding the ball past the goalkeeper.

Despite their fightback, the Harambee Stars couldn’t overturn the deficit, handing McCarthy his first defeat as Kenya’s head coach.

With the win, Gabon now leads Group F with 15 points, followed by Ivory Coast with 13. Burundi sits third with seven points, while Kenya remains fourth with six, two ahead of fifth-placed Gambia. Seychelles remain at the bottom without a point.