As the Harambee Starlets prepare to face Ivory Coast in a crucial set of friendly matches, anticipation mixes with determination within the team. These encounters are more than just ordinary fixtures; they are a critical prelude to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers. Under the watchful eye of coach Beldine Odemba, the Starlets are setting their sights on triumph over The Gambia, a task for which these friendlies will be instrumental.
A dynamic squad mix
Coach Beldine Odemba has announced a 23-player squad, a blend of both local and foreign-based talent. The selection strategy here is intentional, maintaining the core players who recently vanquished Tunisia. This includes the exciting additions of Ann Norah, Vivian Nasaka, Lucy Kwekwe, and Faith Mboya, who are now eager to make their mark. Nasaka returns after missing out on earlier matches due to an injury incurred while playing for Hakkarigucuspor, while Mboya, initially left out against Tunisia, gets her chance to shine.
One noteworthy absence is the Starlets’ captain, Dorcas Shikobe, sidelined by injury sustained at her Greek club, Sirines of Grevena. This is a significant void in the team’s defense and leadership core, but Odemba is confident in the resilience and depth of her squad.
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Strategic importance
These friendlies against Ivory Coast are strategically timed to allow the Starlets to fine-tune their tactics and team chemistry. “The objective of the games is to evaluate our improvement, identify where we have to work harder, and build on what we do well,” Odemba stated. This approach underlines the aim to steadily build a cohesive team ready to tackle the WAFCON qualifiers with enhanced confidence and skill.
Global stage preparation
The match-up occurs amid Kenya’s recent rise in the FIFA rankings, climbing from 149th to 142nd — a testament to their evolving prowess in the international arena. With Cote d’Ivoire holding a strong 71st position, these games present both a substantial challenge and a valuable opportunity for the Starlets to measure their progress on a global stage.
The test ahead
The significance of these friendlies is underscored by the upcoming WAFCON qualifiers. The Starlets are set to engage The Gambia, starting with a leg in Kenya scheduled for October, followed by a decisive return fixture in Gambia. Reflecting on past performances, such as their 1-0 away victory over Tunisia thanks to Tereza Engesha’s early goal, offers an inspiring reminder of the team’s capability and potential to overcome challenging odds.
Harambee Starlets’ squad includes stellar goalkeepers such as Annedy Kundu and Lilian Awuor, a robust defensive lineup, a versatile midfield — featuring talents like Corazone Aquino and Cynthia Shilwatso — and a promising forward line with players like Mwanalima Adam and Jentrix Shikangwa. Each player is an integral part of a well-thought-out strategy aimed at emerging victorious.
Tactical evolution
The focus on minimal disruptions in player selection reflects a deliberate strategy by Odemba to preserve team synergy. By leveraging past successes, the team can accelerate its tactical evolution while maintaining a keen eye on areas needing improvement. These friendlies, therefore, are not merely games but pivotal sessions in refining their game strategy and morale.
Conclusion
The Harambee Starlets embark on this journey to Abidjan, not just to face an opponent but to challenge themselves to reach higher grounds. As they step onto the field, they carry with them not only national pride but also the aspirations of a team ready to cement their place in African football history for the upcoming WAFCON. With each pass, save, and goal, they edge closer to a bigger stage, one that matches their undeniable promise and potential.
