Harambee Stars ready for Gabon test as FKF assures fans of security
Harambee Stars are set to return to competitive home action for the first time since 2021 as they take on Gabon in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. With captain Michael Olunga emphasising the team’s unity and attacking mindset, and FKF assuring fans of a well-organised matchday experience, anticipation is high for a thrilling encounter.
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has hailed the team’s character and spirit ahead of Sunday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium. Olunga, who played a key role in Kenya’s dramatic 3-3 draw against The Gambia on Thursday, believes the team’s unity and attacking mindset will be vital as they return to competitive home action for the first time since 2021.
“The team character and spirit was good, and this is what the coach told us and instilled in us that we had. Each and every player is important, and whoever gets a chance to play needs to be of the same mindset. This was evident in the last game,” Olunga said upon arrival at the airport.
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“It is about the team spirit and teamwork. When you start singling out individual players, then it doesn’t become teamwork. But at the end of the day, we scored three goals away from home. It shows there was something coming into the attack, and we hope we can continue finding the back of the net in the upcoming games, which is quite important,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has assured fans of a secure and well-organised matchday experience. FKF CEO Harold Ndege urged supporters to turn out in large numbers while confirming that security measures and ticketing policies have been carefully planned.
"Ticketing will be an important component for FKF going forward. There are rules we have to adhere to, and the federation considered various factors when planning for Kenya vs Gabon. We have settled on a ticketing plan that works for us," Ndege stated.
With demand for tickets high, FKF announced that no sales will be made beyond Saturday, urging fans to purchase theirs in advance.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed took to Twitter (X) to thank fans for their support.
Thank you, Kenyans, for the amazing support! Ticket sales for the Harambee Stars vs Gabon match are going strong - let’s keep the momentum going. Grab yours today and back our team! pic.twitter.com/tBrEFDnJem
— Hussein Mohammed (@husseinmoha) March 21, 2025
Lang’ata Deputy OCPD Christopher Meme also assured fans of their safety, confirming that adequate security personnel will be deployed in and around the stadium. “There will also be security at the parking to ensure the safety of vehicles. Additionally, Bunyala Road and Douglas Wakiihuri Road will be temporarily closed on Sunday to manage the crowd better,” he said.
The match marks Kenya’s long-awaited return to competitive home fixtures, and with heightened excitement following their comeback performance against The Gambia, Harambee Stars will be looking to make a statement against group leaders Gabon.
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