We are ready for Kenya, says Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma
Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma has warned his side to expect a tough battle against Kenya in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium. With Gabon aiming to strengthen their position in Group F and Kenya seeking to revive their campaign, Mouyouma insists his team is prepared for the challenge, unfazed by the home crowd. Meanwhile, captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set to return, eyeing a historic World Cup qualification for his country.
Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma expects a tough challenge against Kenya in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. The match kicks off at 4 pm.
"We saw the fight Kenya put up against The Gambia, and we know they will be fired up tomorrow. It will be a tough match, but we are ready for whatever Kenya throws at us," said Mouyouma, 49, after Gabon's final training session at Nyayo on Saturday.
Gabon head into the fixture with confidence, having edged Kenya 2-1 in the first leg played in November 2023. They sit second in Group F with 12 points, just one behind leaders Ivory Coast, while Kenya are fourth with six points.
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Mouyouma acknowledged that Kenya will be eager for a win to improve their position but insisted his team is prepared for the challenge. He also downplayed concerns about playing in front of a passionate home crowd, as Harambee Stars return to Nyayo for a competitive match after four years.
"Playing away in Africa is always tough, and we know the Kenyan fans will rally behind their team. But we are focused on playing our game," he said.
Sunday’s encounter will be the sixth meeting between the two nations, with both teams having won twice and drawn once. However, Gabon have never beaten Kenya on Kenyan soil, losing 1-0 in 1997 and 2-1 in 2001.
Mouyouma, who played in Gabon's 1-0 win over Kenya in 1997, reflected on how the game has evolved.
"I played against Kenya 28 years ago. East African teams have a similar style, but football has changed a lot over the last 30 years," he said.
He also spoke about his familiarity with Kenya’s head coach, Benni McCarthy.
"I know Benni from his coaching days at Ajax Cape Town. I expect him to employ a similar style, but with some adjustments."
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returns
Mouyouma confirmed that team captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who missed Gabon’s 3-0 win over Seychelles due to suspension, will return for the Kenya match.
"He will obviously play tomorrow," the coach stated.
Aubameyang, 35, is Gabon’s most-capped player with 80 appearances and their all-time top scorer with 33 goals. Born in France, he had the option to represent France or Spain but chose Gabon, inspired by his father, Pierre-François Aubameyang, who also captained the national team.
Speaking after training, Aubameyang said qualifying for the World Cup would be a dream come true.
"It would be massive, not just for me but for my country and my family. I have waited my whole life for this moment," he said.
The striker also hinted at extending his international career beyond 2026, with his sights set on the 2030 World Cup.
"Age is just a number. If I still have the energy, I will keep playing for my country. At 35, I still feel young," he added.
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