Foootball Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga has issued a passionate call to Kenyans, urging them to fill Nyayo Stadium as Harambee Stars take on Gabon in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier.This highly anticipated match, set to kick off at 4:00 PM EAT, marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s World Cup qualification journey. Victory against Gabon, who currently sit second in Group F with 12 points six ahead of Kenya could reignite the Stars’ hopes of making history.More than just a football match, this is a test of national pride, unity, and the power of home support.It will be only the second international fixture played at Nyayo Stadium in four years, following its renovation and subsequent reopening. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8799841##The recent success of the Junior Starlets, who secured a 2-0 victory over Uganda in the U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, proved just how electrifying the stadium can be when packed with passionate Kenyan fans.Fresh from Ivory Coast, where he witnessed Kenya’s dramatic six-goal thriller comeback against The Gambia, Mariga is confident that the team can rise to the occasion but only if they have the full backing of the fans.”I urge fans to support our team and come out in large numbers to rally behind the boys against Gabon,” Mariga urged.He praised the Harambee Stars’ fighting spirit in Abidjan, where goals from captain Michael Olunga, Mohammed Bajaber, and William Lenkupae saw Kenya earn a point. The millions FKF has made from sale of tickets for Harambee Stars vs Gabon matchThat second-half display, he believes, is proof that Kenya has what it takes to overcome Gabon on home soil.”I think we have a good team right now. The kind of performance they displayed in Abidjan gives me confidence. For this one, I am very sure we will do well,” he added.Benni McCarthy baffled by Engin Firat overlooking Mohammed BajaberMariga acknowledged the challenges the team faced in preparation, noting that the squad was assembled late, limiting time for tactical drills. However, he remains optimistic about their resilience.”The preparation was very good, but the team was assembled very late, and there was no time for extensive tactical training with the coach. But even with that, they did well, and I am glad with what they produced in such a short time,” said the former UEFA Champions League winner.
