Harambee Starlets have 90 minutes today to secure WAFCON 2026 qualification against Gambia. After a 3-1 win in the first leg, Kenya needs to avoid conceding more than two goals or draw to advance. Coach Beldine Odemba says her team is ready to make history after a decade without success.
The second leg of the second round Africa Women's Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 qualifiers takes place today at Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal, at 10 PM Senegal time (1 AM Kenya time). In the first leg last Friday at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Starlets defeated Gambia 3-1. Kenya's goals came from Mwahalima Adam, Fasilah Adhiambo, and Sheylene Opisa in the 12th, 19th, and first-half injury time minutes respectively, while Fatuomata Kanteh scored for Gambia in the 2nd minute.
To qualify, Kenya must avoid conceding more than two goals, or any draw will see them through. Gambia, known as the Scorpions, seek their first-ever qualification after three failed attempts in 2018, 2022, and 2024. Kenya has also missed out in those years but last qualified in 2016. Kenya reached this stage by beating Tunisia 1-0 on aggregate, while Gambia defeated Niger 4-1 in February this year.
Coach Beldine Odemba, speaking after Monday's final training, said: “The girls are ready and have high morale, knowing the job isn't done yet. They are eager to play on big stages like WAFCON.” She added: “We want to make history, especially after 10 years of trying to return to WAFCON. Qualifying will prove major growth in women's football in the country and create opportunities for our players to join top clubs abroad.”
Captain Ruth Ingosi added: “Morale has been high since the first match... We are here to make history. Gambia has been talking, but we respect them and will fight on the pitch.” Dorcas Shikobe said: “We are ready to qualify again and it will be a great opportunity. To Kenyan fans in Senegal, come cheer us; to those at home, we know you love us and we love you too.”
Expected lineup: Lilian Awuor in goal, defense of Lorine Ilavonga, Ruth Ingosi, and Enez Mango; midfield of Elizabeth Muteshi, Lavender Akinyi, Martha Amnyolete, and Fasilah Adhiambo; attack led by Elizabeth Wambui, Sheylene Opisa, and Mwahalima Adam. Both teams arrived in Senegal on Saturday and held final training yesterday.