AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Kenya rescue draw against Eritrea

Kenya fought back late to secure a 1-1 draw against Eritrea in their opening AFCON 2027 qualifying match in Group D on Saturday.

Eritrea looked set to claim all three points after taking the lead in the 36th minute. Nahom Girmai finished a move created by Ali Sulieman, giving the visitors a deserved advantage before half-time. Kenya struggled to find a response during the opening period as Eritrea defended their lead with discipline.

The hosts continued pushing after the interval and eventually found their breakthrough three minutes from full time. Ryan Ogam reacted quickly inside the box to convert Ben Omondi’s assist, bringing Kenya level in the 87th minute.

Kenya pressed for a winner during stoppage time, but Eritrea goalkeeper and defenders held firm to preserve a valuable point. Girmai was named player of the match after his influential performance for Eritrea.

Kenya will play their next game against Guinea on October 1 in Group D. Congo Republic will take on Cameroon on the same day. South Africa leads the group with three points, while Eritrea and Kenya have one point each. Guinea is bottom with zero points.