The Harambee Stars suffered a significant 3-1 home defeat to The Gambia in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match at Kasarani Stadium, marking a reality check for the Kenyan national football team. Gambia, led by former Gor Mahia coach Jonathan McKinstry, demonstrated superior play despite Kenya's strong start.

• Goals for Gambia were scored by Sheriff Sinyan, Musa Barrow, and Yankuba Minteh, with Ryna Ogam netting Kenya's solitary goal.
• The defeat saw Gambia leapfrog Kenya in the standings, moving to seven points.
• Gambia's win was secured with counterattacks from the flanks, utilizing players with English Premier League experience like Brighton's Yakuba Minteh.