Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has lauded Kenyan fans for the warmth he received at Nyayo Stadium during Kenya’s World Cup qualifier against Gabon on Sunday.The Gabon attacker was Kenya’s chief tormentor, bagging a brace in a 2-1 win over Harambee Stars, a result that all but ended Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for their first-ever World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada in 2026.WCQ: Pierre Aubameyang double condemns Harambee Stars to sobering home defeatThe Stars enjoyed a packed Nyayo Stadium on their return to hosting matches at home, their first in four years. However, Aubameyang, who has also played for Chelsea and Barcelona, stole the show with a brace, while Michael Olunga netted Kenya’s consolation goal in what was largely a closely fought match between the two sides.The warmth from the packed stadium seemed to have been felt by both teams, and Aubameyang took to the social media platform X, to express his appreciation to Kenyan football lovers.“Kenya, that was mad; thanks for the welcome,” read his post.Kenya 🇰🇪 was mad thanks for the welcome ❤️🙏🏽⚽️— AUBA⚡️ (@Auba) March 23, 2025 The win took Gabon’s tally to 15 points, putting them at the top of the group, two points ahead of Ivory Coast, who have a match against Gambia. A win for the Elephants would see them reclaim the top spot in Group F with four matches left in the qualifiers, where the group winner will automatically qualify for the World Cup.Kenya’s hopes, on the other hand, look all but over. With just six points from six games, they will need a miracle to top the group or even finish second to secure a playoff spot.##NAJAVA_MECA_8799842##Harambee Stars’ next qualifiers will be in September, both at home, against Gambia and Seychelles. Their immediate next assignment is the CHAN tournament set for August, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
