'We are in safe hands'- Fans react as Benni McCarthy’s impact shows in Harambee Stars' 2-1 loss to Gabon

Fans react as Benni McCarthy’s impact shows in Harambee Stars' 2-1 loss to Gabon Image source: FKF

'We are in safe hands'- Fans react as Benni McCarthy’s impact shows in Harambee Stars' 2-1 loss to Gabon

Abigael Wafula 21:00 - 23.03.2025

Fans have expressed their reactions to Harambee Stars' 2-1 loss to Gabon, with many praising Benni McCarthy's influence.

Gabon had the last laugh, winning 2-1 over Harambee Stars in their 2026 World Cup qualifier match played at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang shines in Harambee Stars vs Gabon match

Harambee Stars vs Gabon
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang shines in Harambee Stars vs Gabon match. Image source: Imago

Gabon’s squad had a depth of experience from players like former Chelsea and Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who has been very instrumental, scoring their two goals.

He placed Gabon in the lead with a goal in the 16th minute after being set up nicely by Guelor Kanga. In the second half, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added another goal in the 51st minute.

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Benni McCarthy’s boys had enough of the humiliation and in the 75th minute, Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga scored Kenya’s first goal.

The second half was a wake-up call for Harambee Stars’ players but Gabon also had a keen eye and could not give chances easily.

Following their performance, fans have shared their thoughts, with some lauding Benni McCarthy for making a different in such a short while as others lamented on how Harambee Stars played.

Fan reactions of Harambee Stars vs Gabon

Harambee Stars vs Gabon
Image source: FKF

“Full-time Harambee Stars 1-2 Gabon (Goals: Michael Olunga / Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang) What are your thoughts on Kenya's performance today?” Kevin Teya shared in a post on his X (Twitter) handle.

“But atleast this team we can see the fighting Power. Harambee Stars has improved,” a fan shared in the comments.

In reply to the question, another fan said: “We need players who can shoot from the outside box. We need upfront players who can pick the Layoffs from Olunga and make good use of the layoffs.”

“The results is hard to swallow because we were the best team today. One thing is Marcelo needs a rest let him come on when there is tired legs. Good game from everyone even if we conceded two goals the CB were good. Call Biron Ochieng and drop Abuya next time,” another fan wrote.

“From what I have seen, he's the man for the job. However, a reshuffle in that team is needed. There are so many deadwood players in the first 11,” a fan wrote, lauding Benni McCarthy as he offered advice.

“We rather focus with marathons,” another fan shared.

“We are in safe hands. If we fix our defense, mbele najua tuta funga (ahead, I know we shall score),” a fan wrote.

“Defence was shambolic and the midfield could not retain the ball. Eric Marcelo Ouma was the only standout performer for me. His runs were giving the Gabonese a hard time,” another fan wrote.

Following the loss, Harambee Stars remain fourth in Group F, having accumulated six points from their six matches so far. Gabon move to first after securing the three points, giving them a total of 13 points.

Harambee Stars are just fresh from a 2-2 draw against the Gambia, in a match played at the at Stade Allasane Ouattara in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on Thursday night.