NAIROBI, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification dreams suffered a blow on Sunday after a 2-1 defeat at home to Gabon in Nairobi.

Former Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored either side of the break to put the visitors 2-0 up.

Captain Michael Olunga pulled one back just past the hour, but it was not enough to save the Harambee Stars from defeat.

It was the first home game in four years for Kenya, who played in front of a sellout crowd led by the country's president William Ruto.

The defeat leaves Kenya fourth in qualifying Group F, as Gabon kept up the pressure on African champions Cote d'Ivoire at the summit.

Following a dramatic last gasp 3-3 draw to Gambia on Thursday, optimism was riding high among Kenyans that their team could outclass the Panthers.

But in front of a fervent support that filled the Nyayo National Stadium three hours before kickoff, it took Aubameyang only 16 minutes to show his class.

The Al Qadsiah forward beat Kenya keeper Ian Otieno with a half volley from Guelor Kanga's delivery.

And the defensive frailties that had overshadowed Kenya's draw with the Gambia came to the fore again, when the Harambee Stars conceded a penalty for the second game running at the start of the second half.

Defender Erick Ouma handled the ball in the box to give away the penalty, and Aubemayang made no mistake from the spot.

Ouma redeemed himself somewhat when his low cross was tucked away by Al Duhail striker Olunga for his second goal in as many games.

However, Kenya could not force an equalizer as Gabon saw out the win.

It was the first defeat for former South Africa international and UEFA Champions League winner Benni McCarthy in his second game in charge of Kenya. Enditem

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