Harambee Stars Eye Redemption Against Seychelles at Kasarani

Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-09 16:00 EAT. The Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars, takes on Seychelles in a second-round 2026 World Cup qualifier at Kasarani Stadium. After a disappointing 3–1 loss to Gambia, Kenya seeks a morale-boosting win against the bottom-placed Seychelles.

The Latest

• What happened now: Harambee Stars aim to bounce back following their defeat by Gambia. Seychelles enters the match without a point. Kenya holds a dominant head-to-head advantage.

• Why it matters: A convincing win could restore confidence and polish Kenya’s FIFA ranking despite earlier elimination from qualification.

• Status: Matchday fixture scheduled for today, 9 September 2025.

Context in Brief

• Kenya’s World Cup campaign includes only one win (against Seychelles in 2023), multiple losses (including two to Gambia and Gabon), and draws against Burundi and Ivory Coast.

• Seychelles remain winless, with seven straight defeats and heavy losses, including a 4–0 reverse to Gabon.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Coach Benni McCarthy: Urged caution against complacency despite Seychelles’ poor form:

  “We don’t take for granted who we play against… depending on what Seychelles stands up to, that will determine the result, but for us nothing but a win will do.”

• Injury/Availability: Aboud Omar is suspended, and Alphonce Omija is absent due to a transfer move. The rest of the squad is available.

Evidence & Data Box

Risks and Implications

• Performance pressure: Poor showing could spark criticism of the coaching setup and team discipline.

• Motivation factor: Seychelles could be more resilient than rankings suggest if Kenya underestimates them.

What We Don’t Know Yet

• Which starting lineup McCarthy will field.

• Tactical adjustments following the Gambia defeat.

• How Seychelles will respond to previous heavy losses.

Timeline

• 20 Nov 2023: Kenya beat Seychelles 5-0 in a previous qualifier.

• 5 Sept 2025: Kenya lost 3-1 to Gambia at Kasarani.

• 9 Sept 2025: Today’s match at Kasarani Stadium.

What to Watch

• Key: Michael Olunga’s presence upfront—will he lead the scoring?

• Defensive setup: Can Kenya maintain a clean sheet against a patched-up Seychelles side?

• Discipline: Will McCarthy’s warning translate into a focused performance?

Editor’s note: A strong performance today could be a foundation for rebuilding public support and squad confidence post-World Cup exit.

Corrections: None.