Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has expressed confidence in the squad’s preparations and gratitude for the support from both the federation and the government as Kenya gears up for its crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Speaking before the team’s departure for Ivory Coast where they will face Gambia on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 10 p.m. EAT at Stade Allasane Ouattara, Olunga highlighted the positive atmosphere in camp.
“Most of the players have reported to camp, and the mood is quite amazing. Everyone is looking forward to our first assignments against Gabon and Gambia. We just want to thank the federation for creating a peaceful environment for the players to come and perform,” he said.
Olunga also acknowledged the faith the new coaching staff has shown in the squad. “We saw the new coach believing in a lot of players. He called up a good number of squad members, and everybody is really looking forward to these two fixtures. We know the group is still open, and tough games lie ahead. First, we will face Gambia away, and we know they are a team that is emerging in Africa with a solid squad. It’s going to be a good encounter to showcase our worth.”
Following their match against Gambia, Kenya will return home to face Gabon at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi on Sunday, March 23, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m. EAT. Olunga expressed appreciation for the government’s role in ensuring the team gets to play at home for the first time in four years.
“We also thank the government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Sports, for helping us get Nyayo Stadium ready to play our first game back at home in four years. We are very much looking forward to this encounter. But first things first, we have to go to Ivory Coast and play Gabon; we just want to give our level best,” he stated.
Reflecting on the team’s transition, Olunga emphasized the need for patience and adaptation. “Of course, it’s a new start with a new federation and a new coach. The dynamics are quite different, and we have to be patient with the team. We need to adapt to what the new coach wants us to do and embrace the new style of play.”
Kenya is currently fourth in the group standings with 5 points, having achieved one win against Seychelles and two draws against Ivory Coast and Burundi, while Ivory Coast leads the group with 10 points. Group winners will qualify directly for the tournament, and the four best runners-up will advance to the CAF Play-Offs, where the winner will compete in a FIFA Playoff for a chance to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
