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Bayern and Ajax Confirm Nairobi Friendly for Stadium Opening

By Drooid · Oct 31, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

President William Ruto announced Bayern Munich and Ajax will play an exhibition match in Nairobi on January 5 2027.
The match will officially open the 60,000-seat Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi.
Officials say the €375 million stadium is funded by private-sector partnerships, not taxpayer money.
Critics argue appearance fees for Bayern and Ajax strain Kenya’s economy ahead of the 2027 AFCON.
Ticket sales start November 5 2026 on talantasportcity.com, price details pending.

Summary

Bayern confirmed a friendly in Nairobi, prompting a flood of comments on its Facebook post.
Fans such as Hezbon Odhaimbo asked whether academy players or stars like Harry Kane would appear.
Imanuel Mwambi said he would not attend unless Bayern’s full lineup, including Kane, was confirmed.
Ollessos National Polytechnic Football Club declared academy players a “NO!” and demanded top-tier stars.

History

After FIFA chose South Africa in 2004 as the first African World Cup host, the government spent R8.4 billion to upgrade Soccer City, limiting tournament capacity to 84,490. President Jacob Zuma opened the stadium on 11 June 2010, echoing its historic role in Nelson Mandela’s 1990 speech and the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, highlighting Africa’s expanding capacity for global sports events.

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After FIFA chose South Africa in 2004 as the first African World Cup host, the government spent R8.4 billion to upgrade Soccer City, limiting tournament capacity to 84,490. President Jacob Zuma opened the stadium on 11 June 2010, echoing its historic role in Nelson Mandela’s 1990 speech and the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, highlighting Africa’s expanding capacity for global sports events.

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