Harambee Stars face Gabon today, Sunday, March 23, in a crucial Group F 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium, kicking off at 16:00 hrs.Gabon currently sits second in the six-team group with 12 points, while Kenya are fourth with six points as they continue their push for a maiden World Cup appearance.Mozzart Sport breaks down six key battles that could determine the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.##NAJAVA_MECA_8799841##1. Benni McCarthy vs. Thierry Mouyouna The biggest tactical showdown of the day will see Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy go head-to-head with Gabon’s Thierry Mouyouna.In what is expected to be a highly strategic match, the manager who makes superior tactical decisions will give his team the best chance of victory.During his pre-match press conference, McCarthy revealed that he plans to take a more attacking approach, a departure from the defensive setup he deployed against The Gambia, where he started with three central defensive midfielders.AFC Leopards adjust AGM date after Mashemeji Derby rescheduling2. Mario Lemina vs. Richard Odada At the heart of midfield, Galatasaray’s Mario Lemina will square off against Kenya’s Richard Odada in a battle for dominance.Lemina, with experience from stints at Wolverhampton Wanderers and other top European leagues, holds the advantage in experience. However, Odada will rely on his exposure in Scotland and Serbia, coupled with home support, to impose himself in midfield and give Kenya an edge.McCarthy hints at squad changes as Harambee Stars gear up for Gabon clash3. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang vs. Daniel AnyembeAfter struggling against The Gambia’s Musa Barrow on March 20, Daniel Anyembe faces an even tougher challenge in the form of 2015 African Footballer of the Year, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker remains a lethal threat, and Anyembe will need to be at his absolute best to keep him at bay.While Aubameyang has made his mark globally, Anyembe has been one of Kenya’s most reliable players in recent times. His composure under pressure will be crucial in ensuring Kenya stands a chance against the Gabonese talisman.##NAJAVA_MECA_8799820##4. Michael Olunga vs. Bruno Ecuele Manga Leading Kenya’s attack, captain Michael Olunga will go up against Gabon’s veteran center-back Bruno Ecuele Manga, who, at 36, brings years of experience to the contest.Olunga has been Harambee Stars’ primary goal-scoring outlet, netting 31 goals since making his debut a decade ago.With the stadium expected to be packed, Kenyan fans will be counting on the Al-Duhail striker to outwit Manga and fire the team to victory. Meanwhile, the seasoned defender will aim to use his experience to contain Olunga and deny Kenya a crucial goal.All we want today is peace and fun at Nyayo National Stadium.#FIFAWorldCupQualifiers #TheMoraaTimes pic.twitter.com/GULvXbwywS— Moraa Times (@MoraaTimes) March 23, 2025 5. Eric Johana vs. Antony OyonoOn the flanks, McCarthy is likely to retain the experienced Eric Johana, hoping his creativity will unlock Gabon’s defense and provide crucial service to Olunga.Johana had a quiet outing against The Gambia and will be eager to make amends if given another start. If he is at his best, he could relieve the pressure on Olunga and increase Kenya’s chances of securing a win.However, standing in his way is Gabon’s Antony Oyono, an impressive right-back known for his defensive solidity and attacking threat on the overlap.Mane and Lions of Teranga fire blanks as Sudan keep their WC dream alive6. Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma vs. Jim Allevinah Eric “Marcelo” Ouma has been one of Kenya’s most consistent performers in recent years. The former Gor Mahia left-back rarely puts in a poor performance and is renowned for his boundless energy in both attack and defense.McCarthy described Ouma as a “beast” during his pre-match press conference, highlighting his strong performances in training and against The Gambia.##NAJAVA_MECA_8796743##This time, he will face a tough opponent in Angers winger Jim Allevinah. After successfully handling Brighton & Hove Albion’s Yankubah Minteh last week, Ouma will need to be at his best again to neutralize the Ligue 1-based forward.If Marcelo can keep the Frenchborn 30-year-old in check, Kenya’s chances of securing a positive result will significantly improve.
