Reflections from Nairobi

Eritrea marked their long-awaited return to the group stage of Africa Cup of Nations qualifying with a determined performance against Kenya at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Saturday.

Facing one of the three co-hosts of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, the Red Sea Camels approached their opening Group D fixture with confidence and discipline. Eritrea grew into the contest and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Nahom Netabay found the back of the net to give the team a 1–0 advantage heading into half-time.

The second half saw Kenya increase the pressure in search of an equaliser, but Eritrea continued to defend with determination while looking for opportunities to extend their lead. The hosts eventually found their breakthrough in the 87th minute through Ryan Ogam, bringing the match level at 1–1.

Even after conceding late, Eritrea continued to push forward, creating further opportunities in the closing stages before the final whistle confirmed a share of the points.

Beyond the result, the match represented an important moment for Eritrean football. After a long absence from this stage of continental competition, the national team returned to AFCON qualifying and competed strongly away from home against a Kenyan side preparing to host the continent in 2027.

The Eritrea National Football Federation would also like to express its sincere appreciation to the Eritrean community in Kenya and to all Eritreans who came out in support of the national team. Their unwavering and relentless support was felt throughout the team’s stay in Nairobi and especially inside the stadium on matchday. The flags, colours, voices and encouragement from the stands once again demonstrated the extraordinary connection between the national team and Eritreans wherever they may be.

To everyone who travelled, attended, supported and stood behind the Red Sea Camels — thank you.

With the opening match now behind us, attention turns immediately to the next challenge.

Eritrea face South Africa tomorrow, Wednesday, 30 September, at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo in the second match of the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.

ERITREA 🇪🇷 vs SOUTH AFRICA 🇿🇦
Wednesday, 30 September 2026
Al Salam Stadium — Cairo, Egypt
Kick-off: 7:00 PM Cairo / Eritrea time

The journey continues.

Below, a selection of images from matchday captures the action on the pitch, the passion of our supporters in the stands, and some of the special moments from an unforgettable evening in Nairobi.