- Michael Olunga is optimistic that a large number of Kenyan supporters will attend as Harambee Stars takes on Gabon on Sunday, March 23rd.
- Kenya enters the match following a thrilling 3-3 tie with Gambia on Thursday, courtesy of an equalizer at the death.
- The Harambee Stars' most recent home match was in 2021 when they faced Rwanda and now require fan backing to defeat Gabon.
Michael Olunga has penned a message for the supporters before Harambee Stars face off against Gabon on Sunday in the World Cup qualifiers.
After the Kenyan squad arrived back home from Ivory Coast following an exciting 3-3 tie against Gambia, Olunga made his comments.
What message did Olunga convey to Kenyans?
Kenya nearly lost their match against Gambia, but William Lenkupae netted an equalizer at the very end, securing a tough draw for Harambee Stars.
Olunga converted the opening penalty before Mohammed Bajaber added an incredible goal. In between, Yankuba Minteh found the back of the net with his effort being nestled between Musa Barrow’s two scores.
Kenya’s prospects were dimmed further after the latest match, leaving them in fourth place in Group F with just six points, placing them six points adrift from their upcoming adversaries. Consequently, they must secure victories in their forthcoming fixtures to retain hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted in North America.
"The squad battled fiercely, demonstrating resilience as they clawed back from being two goals behind and continued to fight till the very end for an equalizer," stated Olunga according to FKF.
Gather in forceful numbers to back the squad. This matters greatly as we are competing at home for the first time in four years. Rest assured, we will represent ourselves admirably.
Kenya suffered defeat in the initial match against Gabon, and the supporters might turn into a hurdle for the squad coached by seasoned forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Is Kenya able to defeat Gabon?
The Harambee Stars performed impressively in the opening period against The Gambia but fell short due to errors committed.
Ian Otieno, the goalkeeper, conceded a penalty but managed to save it, whereas Olunga failed to convert a free header.
Benni McCarthy wasn't satisfied with certain aspects of his team's performance, yet he appreciated their fighting spirit.
"Extremely stressed and not pleased. However, for those who remained impartial, it was quite an engaging match with many goals, which isn’t typically witnessed during World Cup qualifying rounds," McCarthy stated according to FKF.
The optimism I witnessed makes me believe that we can surpass what we achieved today. Although facing Gabon will be challenging, we will have the backing of all Kenyans."
In 2021, Kenya last hosted a match at home against Rwanda for the World Cup qualifiers. Due to the absence of a FIFA-approved stadium, the games were conducted elsewhere.
For example, Kenya staged three of their home matches elsewhere for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The team is looking forward to having fan support as they aim for their second victory.
Bajaber responds after netting a spectacular goal
INSPIRATIONS DIGITAL.co.ke Previously mentioned was the reaction of Mohammed Bajaber when he scored an impressive goal for Harambee Stars.
After landing back in Kenya with the national team following their match against The Gambia, the Kenya Police defensive midfelder shared his thoughts.
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