Aubameyang’s brace puts Gabon ahead of their World Cup qualifying group

Gabon defeated Kenya 2-1 on Sunday in their 2026 World Cup qualifying match in Nairobi, thanks to two goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. This victory put Gabon two points ahead of Ivory Coast in the competition for a spot in the finals in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Ivorians have 13 points from five games and will play their next game on Monday at home against Gambia. Gabon, who have never qualified for the World Cup, now has 15 points from six games in Group F.

The four best runners-up go into a difficult intercontinental playoff campaign for one more berth, while the top club in each of the nine groups advances to the finals.

Aubameyang, 35, scored his first goal with a beautiful 15-meter finish that slipped past the goalie’s hands. After a handball in the box, he added a second goal from the penalty spot.

Kenya has six points from six games and is probably out of the running now. Michael Olunga gave them a goal back, but Benni McCarthy, the new coach, has only managed one point in his first two games as manager.

Minnows Eswatini and Mauritius drew 3-3 in neutral South Africa in Sunday’s sole another match. In all likelihood, neither will qualify for the World Cup.