The Harambee Starlets have booked their place in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 1-0 win over Gambia in the return leg of the final qualification round played at the Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal. The result sealed a 4-1 aggregate victory, sending Kenya back to the continental stage for the first time in nine years.
A Journey of Patience and Purpose
From the start of the campaign, the team stayed focused on one goal, a return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Their journey began against Tunisia in the first round. After a goalless draw in Nairobi, the Starlets traveled to Sousse, Tunisa where Tereza Engesha’s early strike in the ninth minute gave Kenya a 1-0 win and a spot in the final round.
Getting the Job Done Against Gambia
In the first leg at Nyayo Stadium, Mwanalima Adam opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Fasila Adhiambo made it 2-0 seven minutes later. Just before the break, youngster Shalyne Opisa added a third to seal a 3-1 victory at home.
In the return leg, the team recorded a 2-0 win , with Mwanalima Adam’s lone goal finding the back of the net in the 56th minute, completing the job and confirming their place at next year’s tournament in Morocco.
Harambee Starlets Celebration after Mwanalima Adam scored a penalty against The Gambia
“We’ve Waited for This Moment”
Speaking after the match, head coach Beldine Odemba praised her players’ commitment throughout the qualification campaign.
“We’ve waited for this moment for a long time. The girls have shown great character and heart in every game. It hasn’t been easy, but we stayed focused and believed in our goal, to bring Kenya back to the WAFCON stage,” she said.
She also emphasized the importance of preparation and teamwork.
“Every training session, every friendly, every camp has built us up to this. The players deserve all the credit for their discipline and effort. We are proud of what we’ve achieved, and now we look ahead to Morocco.”
A Victory for Women’s Football in Kenya
This qualification is more than just a win , it’s a milestone for Kenyan women’s football. The Starlets’ return to WAFCON highlights the growth of the women’s game and the effort put in by players, coaches, and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to ensure consistent progress.
As the Starlets turn their focus to the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco, one thing is certain, Kenya is back on the continental stage, stronger and more determined than ever.
FINAL SQUAD
Goalkeepers
Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor, Mercy Akoth
Defenders
Lorine Ilavonga, Ruth Ingosi, Tabitha Amoit, Dorcas Shikobe, Enez Mango, Leah Andiema, Vivian Nasaka
Midfielders
Medina Abubakar, Corazone Aquino, Martha Amnyolet, Elizabeth Muteshi, Lavender Ann, Fasila Adhiambo
Forwards
Mwanalima Adam, Catherine Khaemba, Tumaini Waliaula, Violet Nanjala, Elizabeth Wambui, Shaylene Opisa, Airin Madalina
Also read: Nairobi United Make CAF Confederation Cup History