'I Believe in Kenya' - Gabon Coach Pins World Cup Dream on Harambee Stars Beating Ivory Coast

The FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Africa are entering their decisive stage, with Group F shaping up into a fierce battle between Gabon and the Ivory Coast for automatic qualification.

Gabon, buoyed by their thrilling 4-3 victory over Gambia, are preparing for a crucial showdown against Burundi, while the Ivory Coast face the Harambee Stars in their final fixture.

Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma has voiced his support for Kenya, expressing hope that they can hold the Ivory Coast and give the Panthers a clear path to qualification.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

Ivory Coast currently lead Group F with 23 points, just one ahead of Gabon, setting up a dramatic finale to the group stage.

Thierry Mouyouma pointed out that since Kenya appointed Benni McCarthy as the coach, there have been a lot of changes in the quality of football Harambee Stars play.

The tactician explained that Benni McCarthy is a focused coach who is already building a solid team for the 2030 World Cup, and he is confident that they can take down the Ivory Coast.

He advised Harambee Stars players to go into the match with confidence, noting that it is the only way they can conquer Cameroon.

“I believe in Kenya because Benni McCarthy, since his arrival, has been doing a good job. He has been building a solid team for the next qualification,” Thierry Mouyouma told reporters after the match against Gabon.

“Again, Kenya, six or so months earlier, had a problem with a goalkeeper, and when you come from that situation, you cannot let the team down. We hope they will do their best, and they will need confidence to bring them down.”

The coach added that he was rooting for Harambee Stars to silence Gambia, but unfortunately, they lost 3-1 in a match played at the Kasarani Stadium.

“I wanted Kenya to beat Gambia because if they had done that, they could have gone home in second or third place, but unfortunately, it did not happen. We are going to support Kenya, and we’ve played there twice; it’s always a great time,” he opined.

As the qualifiers reach their climax, all eyes will be on Group F, where every goal could decide who makes it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With Thierry Mouyouma rallying behind Kenya and his Gabon side ready for one final push, the stage is set for a thrilling finish that could redefine African football’s road to the global stage.