Hussein Mohammed hails Harambee Stars despite loss to Gambia
By Arnold Ngure, September 5, 2025Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has hailed Harambee Stars’ players despite a sobering loss of 3-1 to Gambia at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium.
In a statement on Friday, September 5, 2025, Mohammed indicated that the players had put on a good fight despite coming short at the final whistle.
“Hard luck, the Harambee Stars, your dedication was evident, but luck wasn’t on your side. Keep your heads high, stay positive, and focus on the upcoming match against Seychelles,” Mohammed said.
Thanks fans
“A heartfelt thank you to our incredible fans for showing up and rallying behind the team until the final whistle. Let’s keep motivating them as we rebuild together.”
Kenya and the Gambia are technically out of the race for qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, set to be organized in the United States of America.
The shocker was a sobering one for coach Benni McCarthy’s men, whose aims of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dashed by a determined Gambian side that sealed the victory with three first-half goals.
While the match began with a glimmer of hope for the home fans, as Kenya pushed forward in the opening minutes, this was soon to be put to rest.
In the 12th minute, a corner kick found defender Sheriff Sinyan unmarked in the box, and he shot a perfect header into the net to give the Scorpions an early 1-0 lead.
Yankuba Minteh
Kenyan fans’ worst fears were confirmed when, in the 25th minute, winger Yankuba Minteh, known for his blistering pace, outran the Kenyan defense and slotted home a composed finish past goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, doubling Gambia’s lead.
As the Harambee Stars struggled to gain composure, Musa Barrow delivered the final blow. In the 38th minute, a perfectly timed cross from the right flank was met by Barrow, who expertly guided the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-0.
While the Harambee Stars proved to be more determined to turn things around, their efforts were, for the most part, fruitless.
Ogam’s consolation goal
Their efforts eventually paid off in the 81st minute when Ryan Ogam scored a consolation goal, providing a small flicker of light on an otherwise dark afternoon. The final whistle confirmed the 3-1 scoreline, confirming a heavy defeat for the home side.