Ivory Coast sealed their return to the FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 win over Kenya in Abidjan, confirming their place in the 2026 finals after a 12-year absence. Goals from Franck Kessié, Yan Diomandé, and Amad Diallo capped a dominant performance at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara, as the Elephants topped Group F unbeaten with 26 points. For Kenya, the defeat marked the end of their qualifying journey, falling short of the playoff zone despite flashes of promise earlier in the campaign.
Coached by Emerse Faé, the Elephants controlled the match from the outset, with Kessié’s early strike setting the tone. Kenya, led by Benni McCarthy, struggled to contain the hosts’ fluid attack and managed just one shot on target. Diomandé’s header and Diallo’s late solo effort exposed Kenya’s defensive gaps, while midfielders Alpha Onyango and Ryan Odada were effectively neutralized. Ivory Coast’s qualification crowns a golden run, having also won the 2024 AFCON under Faé’s leadership.
Group F concluded with Gabon finishing second (25 points), advancing to the CAF playoff round. Kenya placed fourth with 12 points (3W-3D-4L), behind Gambia (13 points) and ahead of Burundi and Seychelles. Despite a respectable goal difference (+8), the Harambee Stars’ inconsistency proved costly.
As Ivory Coast joins Morocco, Egypt, and Senegal in the USA-Mexico-Canada World Cup draw, Kenyan fans are left reflecting on missed chances and future potential. The journey continues for East African football, and sportsbiz.co.ke will be there every step of the way with exclusive coverage, analysis, and updates.
