Ajax and Bayern Munich will play the inaugural match at Kenya’s new national stadium, the Raila Odinga International Stadium, in Nairobi on January 5, 2027.
The two European clubs confirmed the fixture on Wednesday, marking a major milestone for the East African country as it prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The stadium, also known as Talanta Sports Stadium, has been under construction since 2024 and is expected to accommodate 60,000 spectators.
It will serve as Kenya’s national stadium and host matches during the continental football tournament, as well as other football and rugby events.
Ajax said the invitation to participate in the opening match came with warm words from the organisers for both clubs.
“The match between Bayern Munich and Ajax – six- and four-time UEFA Champions League winners respectively – is regarded by the organisers as a major football event in East Africa. It marks the opening of a special new stadium in front of a huge African crowd, a clash between two giants of international football, and a defining moment for Kenya on the road to the Africa Cup of Nations.”
The Dutch club described the invitation as an honour but also viewed the encounter as a serious test during the Eredivisie’s winter break.
Bayern Munich’s board member for sales and marketing, Rouven Kasper, also welcomed the opportunity to connect with the club’s supporters across Africa.
“FC Bayern has millions of fantastic fans in Africa with whom we feel a close connection – it’s a continent with a huge passion for football,” Kasper said.
He added, “For many years, we have consistently maintained a presence in America and Asia with our ‘Audi Summer Tour’. Now we have a new opportunity to further strengthen our connection with our fans in Africa too, to allow people to experience FC Bayern first-hand and to underline our club’s international appeal. We will be making a further contribution to raising the profile of the Bundesliga and are very much looking forward to this special event.”
