Kenya’s Quest for Home Advantage: Nyayo Stadium’s FIFA Qualifier Bid Amid Renovations and Controversy

The Ministry of Sports in Kenya has reignited campaigns to secure Nyayo National Stadium as the venue for FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast next month.

Peter Tum, the Principal Secretary for Sports, recently addressed the National Assembly Committee on Sports, stating that the ministry had extended an invitation to the CAF Inspectorate Committee to inspect the stadium.

This initiative follows the committee’s previous ruling deeming the stadium unfit to host the mentioned matches. Consequently, the Football Federation booked Bingu National Stadium in Malawi, sparking mixed reactions among Kenyans.

Many Kenyan fans had hoped for the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to secure a stadium in neighboring countries like Uganda or Tanzania for easier access. Both Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums had been closed down by the government for renovations in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Expressing his disappointment, Harambee Stars’ Head Coach, Engine Firat, lamented the decision to move the matches outside the country. Former FKF president, Sam Nyamweya, echoed these sentiments, condemning the current regime’s perceived lack of action and direction.

The last time Kenya played in Nairobi in front of their fans was in 2023, resulting in a disappointing 1-0 loss to South Sudan. However, during the second round of the Group E fixture for the World Cup qualifier, Kenya emerged victorious against Rwanda with a 2-1 win at Nyayo Stadium.

FKF President Nick Mwendwa revealed that Coach Engine Firat has already named the provisional squad ahead of the team’s departure on 1st June for Malawi.

Reported By Evans Muita.