A considerable number of Kenyan citizens have taken to social media to convey their sentiments in the aftermath of Harambee Stars’ initial setback in the World Cup qualifiers against Gabon.
During the first half, Masud Juma secured a 1-0 lead for Kenya, capitalizing on a defensive lapse and miscommunication between Gabon’s goalkeeper, Junior Noubi, and a defender. Juma’s goal, a header into an unguarded net, stemmed from a long-range cross by Amos Nondi in the 40th minute, instilling hope for Kenya as they entered halftime in the lead.
Regrettably, in the second half, Johnstone Omurwa faltered in clearing a long-range pass from Gabon’s defense. Exploiting this error, Denis Bouanga equalized in the 60th minute by skillfully lobbing the ball past the charging Patrick Matasi, guarding Kenya’s goal.
Despite several counter-attacks from Kenya in their bid to regain the lead, the hosts ultimately triumphed. Guelor Kanga sealed the victory for Gabon in the 88th minute with a powerful 20-yard shot that left Matasi helpless.
In response to the defeat, Kenyans voiced their frustrations on social media, particularly on platform X, inundating it with diverse reactions and opinions.
Here are some notable comments:
George Diano: The government should cease squandering taxpayers’ money on Harambee Stars. Those indolent players will never achieve anything; we’ll never reach the World Cup if we persist in recycling the same individuals. Michael Olunga is an overrated underachiever, and Nick Mwenda is an intellectually deficient and inept individual.
@BlackKingKe1: I swear, if that team had a few Kikuyus and they knew there was a 2.5 million prize, I’m sure one of them would have scored an Olympic goal when they won.
Steve Muema: We ought to channel all resources towards rugby.
