The Harambee Stars seek a return to winning ways when they take on Seychelles at Kasarani in a 2026 World Cup qualifier clash on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

The fixture comes after their recent setback against rivals Gambia on Friday, September 5, 2025, which effectively ended Kenya’s chances of qualification from the group.

For Kenyan coach Benni McCarthy, this tie offers the opportunity to regroup and restore confidence that has been creeping into the team from the CHAN Games experience.

Also Read: Harambee Stars pair to miss Seychelles World Cup Qualifying tie

It’s also a chance to test new players, given the shift in focus towards the 2027 AFCON games, which now rank as Kenya’s most immediate targets.

McCarthy’s recent call-up of foreign-based players included a horde of debuts, such as Real Sociedad B star Job Ng’uono Ochieng. With the next clash, the trainer will mull an extended chance to sample his team as he bids to conjure up the best winning combination from the pool of talent at his disposal, barely seven months after taking over the national team role.

Also read: McCarthy threatens to send home some Harambee Stars players

Meanwhile, the tie is crucial for Seychelles, which is still searching for its maiden win in Group F.

The Islanders kicked off qualifiers with a 9-0 humiliation at home to Côte d’Ivoire on November 17, before a 5-0 loss to Kenya in Abidjan on November 20, 2025, further compounding matters.

Michael Olunga scored a brace in the five-goal annihilation, while the team’s recent outing ended in a 4-0 defeat against Gabon, with Denis Bouanga’s hat trick sending Gabon to the top of Group F, then.

The team, led by Ralph Jean-Louis (lead coach) and Basil Hoareau (assistant coach), largely boasts a home-based group of players. Evans Adrienne (Real Maldives), Carlos Simeon, and Lance Ernesta are the experienced foreign players.

The coach has asserted that their focus is on the Indian Ocean Games, with the ongoing qualifications acting as a mere springboard for their preparations.

“Our objective is to prepare a team for the Indian Ocean Island Games. This is the World Cup for island teams. If we can win this tournament, it will be a first step to gain the experience for the Indian Ocean Games,” he stated.

The clash will kick off at 4:00 pm at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.