Kenya wanted to make an impact in the World Cup qualifiers with their new head coach. However, former Borussia Dortmund player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang shattered their dreams.
The star striker opened the scoring for Gabon in the 16th minute. The first half ended with this result.
Gabon Takes Control
In the second half, Gabon was awarded a penalty in the 52nd minute. Aubameyang stepped up and doubled the lead. Although Kenya responded through Michael Olunga, it was not enough.
Gabon secured a 2-1 victory over Kenya, reaching 15 points and claiming the top spot in the group.
This gave them a significant advantage in the race for a top-two finish. Meanwhile, Kenya remained at six points, leaving their World Cup hopes in jeopardy.
Thriller in Group D: Eswatini vs. Mauritius
In Group D, a thrilling match took place between Eswatini and Mauritius, featuring a total of six goals. Philani Thabo Mkhontfo scored the opening goal for Eswatini in the 13th minute.
Just five minutes later, he struck again, securing his second goal and giving his team a 2-0 lead. The first half ended with this scoreline.
Mauritius’ Comeback and Late Drama
Mauritius showed a strong reaction in the second half. Within the first five minutes, Lindsay Rose and Yannick Aristide scored two quick goals to level the game at 2-2.
However, Eswatini was determined to take the win. Mayibongwe Mabuza put them ahead in the 75th minute, making it 3-2. But Mauritius refused to give up and, in stoppage time, Emmanuel Vincent scored the equalizer, ending the match in a draw.
The result was not favorable for either team. Both sides saw their chances of progressing from the group stage diminish significantly.