Harambee Stars 2.5 million rich after Seychelles win

Kenya produced an eye-catching performance, thumping the hapless Seychelles 5-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on Monday night.

A brace from under-pressure skipper Michael Olunga and a goal each from Masud Juma and the Gor Mahia duo of Rooney Onyango and Benson Omala sealed the big victory for coach Engin Firat's side.

For their effort, the Harambee Stars will pocket KES 2.5 million from the government.

Confirming the good news, Cabinet Secretary for Sports Ababu Namwamba said, "Hongera boys. KES 2.5 million pap!"

The win was Stars' in Group F after letting go of a 1-0 first-half lead to fall 2-1 to hosts Gabon last Thursday.

Before departing for Franceville on a chartered plane, Ababu, who went to the airport to see them off, promised to reward every win with KES 2.5 million.

“For every three points that you give me, you will get KES 2.5 million. You win these two qualifiers (Gabon and Seychelles), and I have your KES 5 million shillings ready as you land back in the country,” Ababu pledged.

Stars showed dominance over Seychelles with Olunga, who had gone for 11 matches without scoring, putting him under pressure from fans, breaking the deadlock in the third minute with a low drive from the left.

The Al Duhail SC striker doubled the lead three minutes later, but Masud had to wait until towards the end of the half to put his name on the board in the 46th minute.

Rooney scored his first international goal in three matches in the 62nd minute before setting up his teammate Omala for the fifth goal in the 73rd minute.

The qualifiers take a break until after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), when Kenya will host two games against The Gambia and Ivory Coast in June 2024.

PLAYER RATINGS: Rooney Onyango's brilliance evident as Harambee Stars secure commanding win over Seychelles