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Can Kenya’s midfield outmuscle Gabon’s creative core to keep their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes alive in Nairobi?
If there is one area that will shape Sunday’s World Cup qualifier between Kenya and Gabon, it is the midfield.
In a tightly contested Group F, where every point carries weight, the battle in the center of the park could make or break qualification hopes.
The clash at Nyayo National Stadium, which roars back to life for its first competitive international in four years, will see the tempo, intensity, and balance dictated by the men patrolling the middle.
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11:08 - 21.03.2025
Benni McCarthy remains defiant over Harambee Stars’ World Cup chances as he promises changes for Gabon clash
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy still has hopes of clinching a World Cup place despite a draw away to the Gambia as he looks to freshen up the team for Gabon on Sunday.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Athletics News in Kenya from Pulse Sports.
Antony Akumu v Mario Lemina: A clash of anchors
At the heart of this midfield duel is a fascinating matchup between Anthony Akumu and Mario Lemina.
Akumu, the experienced defensive midfielder, will be tasked with one of the toughest jobs on the pitch—keeping Lemina quiet. The Wolves midfielder has been a calming presence for Gabon, dictating tempo with crisp passes and intelligent positioning.
Akumu’s role will be less about flair and more about grit. Shadowing Lemina, cutting off passing lanes, and ensuring Gabon do not find their rhythm in build-up play will be crucial. Whoever wins this physical and positional battle could tip the scales for their team.
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07:13 - 21.03.2025
Harambee Stars: What do Kenya need to qualify for World Cup after thrilling draw with Gambia?
Harambee Stars scored a last-minute goal to secure a thrilling 3-3 draw with The Gambia and after the stalemate, they have it all to do to claim a first-ever World Cup ticket.
Richard Odada and Ismael Gonzalez: Kenya’s engine room
Benni McCarthy’s midfield setup will hinge on the energy of Richard Odada and the composure of Ismael Gonzalez.
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Odada has been a revelation with his relentless pressing and ability to disrupt opposition play. His high-octane style could be vital in unsettling Gabon's more technical midfielders, particularly when pressing in advanced areas.
Gonzalez, on the other hand, is the glue between defense and attack.
Calm under pressure, he helps Kenya maintain possession and transition quickly. Together, their balance of fire and finesse will be key in limiting Gabon’s creative threats, especially Guelor Kanga, who thrives in the pockets of space they will look to close down.
Guelor Kanga and Eric Johana: The creative sparks
While the focus may be on the enforcers and workhorses, creativity could be the X-factor. For Gabon, Guelor Kanga is the danger man between the lines. He is unpredictable, quick to exploit defensive lapses, and capable of producing magic from nothing.
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If given time and space, he can thread killer passes or fire from distance—both of which Kenya must be wary of.
For Kenya, Eric Johana offers a similar spark. Known for his flair and movement in transition, Johana can be the outlet when Kenya win possession and look to counter. His runs from deep and clever positioning could unlock Gabon’s defense, especially if Avire drifts wide to pull defenders out of shape.
11:08 - 21.03.2025
Benni McCarthy remains defiant over Harambee Stars’ World Cup chances as he promises changes for Gabon clash
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy still has hopes of clinching a World Cup place despite a draw away to the Gambia as he looks to freshen up the team for Gabon on Sunday.
With the group still wide open and Gabon sitting top with 12 points, Kenya know that only a win will keep their World Cup dream alive. The 3-3 thriller against Gambia showed spirit, but defensive lapses remain a concern. Sunday offers a chance to reset, rally the fans, and mount a serious challenge.
But for that to happen, the midfield must deliver. Every duel, every tackle, every pass will count. In a game of fine margins, the men in the middle could be the ones who decide it all.
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![MP beaten, kicked out of Nyayo Stadium as Harambee Stars lose to Gabon [VIDEO]](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/23032025/f05a77c7-0469-44e6-bb09-3e702c927dc8.jpg?operations=fit(600:))
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