Guinea vs Kenya Today: Kick-Off Time, Group D Stakes and Harambee Stars Team News
By Shadrack Kimeli | October 1, 2026
Harambee Stars face Guinea in Conakry today, Thursday, October 1, in their second match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The Group D fixture is scheduled to kick off at 7:00pm East Africa Time at Stade du 28 Septembre, according to the Confederation of African Football.
How the Two Teams Started
Kenya opened with a 1-1 draw against Eritrea in Nairobi, while Guinea lost 2-1 away to South Africa. That leaves Kenya on one point and Guinea still looking for their first point of the campaign.
Why the Match Still Matters for Kenya
Kenya is already assured of a place at AFCON 2027 as a co-host with Uganda and Tanzania. CAF has therefore structured the group differently: only the highest-placed team among Guinea, South Africa and Eritrea will join Kenya at the finals.
For coach Benni McCarthy, the qualifiers remain important competitive preparation. They give him a chance to assess combinations, younger players and the team’s ability to perform away from home before a home tournament in 2027.
Olunga Leads the Squad
Captain Michael Olunga leads a 24-man squad that blends established internationals with emerging players. The group also includes goalkeeper Brian Bwire, defender Joseph Okumu, midfielder Timothy Ouma and attacking options such as Mohammed Bajaber and Ryan Ogam.
What Kenya Must Improve
McCarthy has publicly called for a more clinical performance after Kenya created chances against Eritrea but needed a late equaliser. Guinea, meanwhile, will also be under pressure to respond after losing their opening match.
What to Watch
- Kenya’s finishing in the final third.
- The midfield contest against a technically strong Guinea side.
- How Kenya’s defence handles striker Serhou Guirassy and Guinea’s transition play.
