Gabon strongest possible starting XI to face Harambee Stars

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Gabon will face Harambee Stars on Sunday afternoon in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi.

With top spot in Group F on the line, the Panthers are expected to unleash their strongest starting XI against a Kenyan side that has shown attacking flair but remains defensively vulnerable.

Head coach Thierry Mouyouma will be buoyed by the return of veteran striker Aubameyang, who missed their 3-0 win over Seychelles due to suspension.

Now available, the 35-year-old is likely to lead the line as Gabon aim to tighten their grip on the group ahead of Africa Cup of Nations champions Ivory Coast.

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The return of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is a major boost for Gabon. The Al-Qadsiah forward, who is the country’s all-time leading scorer with 33 goals in 77 appearances, was forced to watch from the stands during their last outing due to accumulated yellow cards. Now back, his inclusion adds world-class firepower to Gabon's attack.

Aubameyang’s track record speaks for itself. He scored 141 goals for Borussia Dortmund, won the Bundesliga Golden Boot in 2016/17, and followed it up with a successful spell at Arsenal, where he won the Premier League Golden Boot in 2018/19 and led the Gunners to FA Cup glory. His experience and clinical finishing will be critical for Gabon as they push for their first-ever World Cup appearance.

He is expected to spearhead a three-man attack that also features Clermont Foot winger Jim Allevinah, who opened the scoring against Seychelles, and Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga, who netted a brace in that match. The trio offers pace, creativity, and finishing ability — a nightmare for Kenya’s leaky defense.

Behind the front three, Gabon’s midfield is anchored by a blend of creativity, steel, and experience. Guelor Kanga is the chief orchestrator, known for his passing range and vision. He is joined by Medwin Biteghe and Mario Lemina, the former Juventus and Southampton midfielder who brings top-level experience and tactical awareness.

The trio will be tasked with dictating the tempo and disrupting Kenya’s rhythm. Lemina, in particular, adds a physical edge and calmness in possession, something that will be vital in a potentially hostile away environment.

Defensively, Gabon are likely to retain the same back four that kept a clean sheet against Seychelles.

Anthony Oyono and Johann Obiang are expected to occupy the full-back positions, providing width when needed, while veteran Bruno Ecuele Manga marshals the center alongside Urie-Michel Mboula.

Goalkeeper Loyce Marcus Mbaba continues to impress between the sticks. His command of the area and shot-stopping ability were crucial in the previous qualifier, and he will be aiming to frustrate a Kenyan side that has scored 10 goals in the qualifiers so far.

Goalkeeper: Loyce Marcus Mbaba

Defenders: Anthony Oyono, Bruno Ecuele Manga, Urie-Michel Mboula, Johann Obiang

Midfielders: Guelor Kanga, Mario Lemina, Medwin Biteghe

Forwards: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Jim Allevinah, Denis Bouanga