Harambee Stars goalkeeper Ian Otieno has expressed confidence in Kenya’s ability to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Kenya is currently fourth in Group F 2026 World Cup qualifiers with 6 points, six shy of group leaders Gabon, whom they face on Sunday, 23 March, at Nyayo National Stadium from 1600 hrs.To qualify for the World Cup, Kenya needs to top the group or, at worst, be one of the best runners-up.##NAJAVA_MECA_8799841##Speaking during Kenya’s last training session before the Gabon clash, Otieno, who plies his trade in South Africa, discussed the World Cup dream.“We stand a chance of going to the World Cup. I know the whole country is looking forward to that, and so is the team; therefore, even as we play, everyone is focused on what lies ahead. If we achieve that, we make the country proud, and we will also be proud of ourselves,” said Otieno.NSL: Kibera Black Stars eye redemption in promotion race as Blackboots struggle for survivalOtieno also disclosed that the whole team is upbeat of the match, a state that is catalyzed by the virtue of playing at home“Preparations have been good. Everyone is ready for the game, and the fact that we are playing at home gives us an oomph going into the game.”The match marked Kenya’s return to hosting competitive international matches on home soil after the renovation and approval of Nyayo National Stadium, and Otieno admits that the team missed playing in front of the home crowd.“We are equally happy to be back home after playing away from home for so long, and we look forward to the fans, to the support of the home crowd, and just like any other game, we are going to give it our best,” he added.Harambee Stars battle Aubameyang’s Gabon in sold-out World Cup qualifier at Nyayo StadiumThe former AFC Leopards custodian also disclosed what they are expecting from the game against star-studded Gabon.“It is going to be a tactical game. Both teams have good players, so I think it will be an exciting match.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8798974##FKF have announced that the tickets for the match have been sold out and no fans will be allowed to the stadiums, save for those with match day tickets, with security officials ready to enforce the maintenance of law and order in and around the match venue.Kesho haifiki?????? pic.twitter.com/WgD13xzRbk— Saddam (@Saddam_KE) March 22, 2025
