Kenya’s Harambee Stars have humbled Seychelles 5-0 in a Group F match of the on-going FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
After falling 3-1 to Gambia a few days ago in Nairobi, the Harambee Stars team being captained by Michael Olunga came all out to thrash Seychelles at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, Nairobi on Tuesday.
Four headed goals and a converted penalty did it for the national team giving Kenya nine points from eight matches making them fourth in Group ‘F’.
Ryan Ogam gave the hosts the lead after 7 minutes. Kenya dominated possession and doubled their advantage in the 35th minute when Collins Sichenje powered home from Duke Abuya’s assist.
The Seychelles national team the Pirates tried to fight back, but failed to beat the Harambee Stars defending line.
Barely three minutes later, Ogam struck again and netted his second goal of the day after 38 minutes making it 3-0 before Olunga converted a penalty five minutes into added time.
After recess, Olunga nodded in past Seychelles goalkeeper Romeo Robertson to make it 5-0 after 67 minutes assist from Ronny Onyango
Still, Abuya wanted more but his long range effort in the 12 minute went over the bar in his attempt to score his third goal for the national team.
Harambee Stars Coach Benni McCarthy lauded his team’s splendid performance saying that they did not underestimate their opponent noting that the boys played professionally.
He said he was happy for the players as they had picked themselves up after the Gambia game and was pleased for the players that made it to the score sheet.
“We prepared ourselves well, everyone stood up tall and we now have something positive to build on,” he said adding that the team now turn their focus to their final qualifiers in October, when they face Burundi (October 6) and group leaders Ivory Coast (October 13) .
On his part Seychelles Coach Ralph Jean- Louis praised Kenya’s good performance saying “We knew it was going to be a tough match and Kenya played well. We have a young squad that we are preparing for upcoming games”.
Seychelles remain at the bottom of the group with no points from eight matches. Ivory Coast currently top the standings with 20 points.
By Anita Omwenga
