Kenya Under 23 Pip Ivory Coast in AFCON Qualifiers
Kenya's national men's football under 23 Emerging Stars edged out Ivory Coast 2-1 in the first leg of their second-round 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at Nyayo National Stadium on Wednesday, 11 November2026 .
Second-half goals from Henry Omollo and Andreas Omondi handed Anthony Kimani's charges a crucial home victory, leaving them needing at least a draw in the return leg on Tuesday, November 17, at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan to advance to the final qualifying round.
Bi Djiamgone whipped in a well-struck cross from the right wing that travelled across the box to the far side, where substitute Konate rose highest to slot home with his left foot past Caleb Kramer and restore parity.
Ivorians captain, Christ Tape, was shown a second yellow card, resulting in a dismissal after fouling Irad Mshindi in the final minute of the match. He will therefore miss the return leg on home soil.
The Emerging Stars will now travel to Abidjan for the return fixture knowing that a draw will be enough to secure their place in the final qualifying round of the 2027 AFCON, scheduled to be hosted in Egypt.
Kenya U23 vs Ivory Coast U23: AFCON Qualifiers First-Leg Lineups
Emerging Stars: Caleb Kramer, Baron Ochieng, Robinson Musungu, Jackson Imbiakha, Kevin Wangaya, Aldrine Kibet, Brooklyn Kazungu, Emmanuel Erupe, Lawrence Okoth, Andreas Odhiambo, Humphrey Aroko.
Ivory Coast: Yvann Birama, Emmanuel Kakou, Jean Ives Valou, N’guetta Ekou, Souleymane Fofana, Bi Djiamgone, Bi Goore, Eddy Doue, Mamadou Kone.