Online, the announcement has generated excitement among fans anticipating the chance to watch two established European clubs play on Kenyan soil.

Leaders have welcomed the confirmed visit of German football giants Bayern Munich and Dutch side Ajax Amsterdam to Kenya for a January 5, 2027, match at Raila Odinga International Stadium, as football fans online celebrate the prospect of watching the European clubs in Nairobi.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya welcomed the fixture, writing: “January 5 2027 - Talent meets the Future! Welcome home to the Raila Odinga International Stadium Talanta!”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen described the match as a landmark moment for Kenyan sport, praising Ruto's commitment to sports development and the delivery of the new facility.

State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed congratulated President William Ruto on the stadium project, saying: “When an unshakable resolve meets committed leadership, anything is possible.”

Homa Bay Governor and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) National Chairperson Gladys Wanga described the fixture as a proud moment for Kenya and African football, saying it would strengthen the country's ambition to host major international sporting events.

Wanga also welcomed the naming of the 60,000-seater stadium after former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing it as a lasting tribute to his contribution to Kenya's political history.

“The naming of this world-class facility in honour of the late Rt. Hon. BABA Raila Amolo Odinga is a great posthumous honour, recognising his place in Kenya's history and ensuring that his name remains part of the country's national story for generations to come,” she said.

She added that the match could create opportunities in tourism, enterprise, employment and the development of local sporting talent.

X user KOT OCS defended the choice of the teams for the stadium's opening, arguing that bringing European giants to Nairobi was fitting for a venue of its scale.

“If you're not happy about Ajax Vs Bayern Munich at the newly constructed Raila Odinga International Stadium, then you're sick,” the user wrote, adding that local football clubs could wait.

@Muhomuhonjah celebrated the confirmed date, writing: “Si mnaona pia wao wenyewe washaa confirm. 5th January it is. Bayern Munich vs Ajax.”

Another user, @RolexRono, focused on the prospect of seeing Bayern forward Harry Kane in Nairobi, posting: “Harry Kane in Kenya Bayern Munich vs Ajax - LIVE in Nairobi!”

@Shiko_tyras also celebrated the fixture, writing in capital letters that Bayern Munich would face Ajax in the official opening of the Raila Odinga International Stadium on January 5, 2027.

However, some users raised questions about the players who would feature in the match. Adele challenged those speculating that Bayern might send a second team, asking whether state should be expected to select the players who travel.

Others were less enthusiastic about the stadium itself. Calvin questioned whether the project would be remembered positively, referring to concerns about the facility's standards and cost.

Myk Bryn, who had earlier called for confirmation from the clubs, had expressed concern about treating the fixture as official before Bayern Munich and Ajax confirmed their participation. Both clubs have since announced the match through their official platforms.

Bayern said it would travel to Nairobi for the stadium's inauguration, while Ajax described the invitation as an honour. The clubs' announcements confirmed the January 5 fixture.

The match will officially open the stadium as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Uganda and Tanzania.

Ruto has said the facility will provide a world-class venue for international football and rugby, with the January fixture marking a major event ahead of the continental tournament.