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Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as Gabon beat Kenya 2-1 in qualifying for the 2026 Fifa World Cup – and severely dented the East Africans’ hopes of reaching the finals.<\/b><\/p>\n
Victory sent Gabon two points clear of Ivory Coast at the top of Group F as the Panthers strengthened their own bid for a maiden appearance at the tournament.<\/p>\n
Kenya are fourth, nine points behind the Group F leaders.<\/p>\n
Former Arsenal striker Aubameyang opened the scoring when he lashed home with a right-footed shot in the 16th minute, and the 35-year-old celebrated with some trademark acrobatics.<\/p>\n
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga had the best chances to equalise in Nairobi, having a shot tipped on to the post and then heading wide in first-half injury time.<\/p>\n
Aubameyang, who now plays his club football in Saudi Arabia with Al-Qadsiah, doubled Gabon’s lead from the penalty spot seven minutes after the break after Erick Ouma was penalised for handball.<\/p>\n
Olunga did pull one back in the 62nd minute, converting Ouma’s low cross from the left, but Kenya could not find an equaliser and their chances of a first trip to the World Cup are fading with just four rounds of fixtures remaining.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n