The Harambee Starlets are gearing up for a crucial 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Tunisia, set to take place at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Friday, February 21, 2025. This match represents a golden opportunity for Kenya to return to the prestigious tournament, which they last participated in back in 2016.
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Ulinzi Sports Complex Confirmed as Match Venue
After months of renovations, the Ulinzi Sports Complex is finally set to reopen. The venue, which had been temporarily closed as part of preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), will host both teams for training on Thursday before the big showdown.
With its modern facilities and revamped pitch, the stadium is expected to provide the perfect stage for this high-stakes WAFCON qualifier.
Starlets’ Tactical Approach: All-Out Attack
Head coach Beldine Odemba has made it clear that Kenya will adopt an aggressive attacking strategy in the first leg.
“Tunisia is a strong side, but we are ready for the challenge ahead. In our home match, we need to score and press forward aggressively to secure a positive result,” Odemba stated.
With a squad featuring a blend of experienced internationals and promising young talents, Kenya is looking to dominate from the first whistle. Odemba also emphasized the importance of integrating young players into the squad, citing Elizabeth Ochaka, a former Junior Starlets captain who has already made her mark at the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
Squad Strength: Balance of Youth and Experience
The provisional squad comprises a strong mix of domestic and international players, with 26 players already in camp. The remaining 10, including key foreign-based players, are set to join once the FIFA international window opens.
Goalkeepers:
- Annedy Kundu (Kenya Police Bullets)
- Vivian Shiyonzo (Kibera Girls Soccer)
- Lilian Awuor (Farul Constanta, Turkey)
- Lavender Abongo (KISPED Queens)
Defenders:
- Ruth Ingosi (Simba Queens)
- Dorcas Shikobe (Sirines of Grevena, Greece)
- Benedete Atieno (KISPED Queens)
- Elizabeth Ochaka (Kenya Police Bullets)
- Vivian Nasaka (Hakkarigucuspor)
- Wincate Kaari (Simba Queens)
- Alice Mideri (Vihiga Queens)
- Leila Apiyo (Sirines of Grevena, Greece)
- Tabitha Amoit (Ulinzi Starlets)
- Enez Mango (Farul Constanta, Turkey)
- Mary Nthambi (Kenya Police Bullets)
- Janet Mumo (Kibera Girls Soccer)
Midfielders:
- Corazone Aquino (Simba Queens)
- Sheril Angach (Ulinzi Starlets)
- Martha Amnyolet (Vihiga Queens)
- Lydia Akoth (Yanga Princess)
- Fasila Adhiambo (Ulinzi Starlets)
- Lavender Ann Akinyi (Ulinzi Starlets)
- Yvonne Idagiza (Kibera Girls Soccer)
- Cynthia Shilwatso (Besiktas, Turkey)
- Beverline Adika (Zetech Sparks)
Forwards:
- Mwanalima Adam (Kansas, USA)
- Elizabeth Mideva (Archbishop Njenga)
- Tereza Engesha
- Rebecca Okwaro (Kenya Police Bullets)
- Violet Nanjala
- Elizabeth Wambui (Simba Queens)
- Jentrix Shikangwa (Simba Queens)
- Janet Bundi
- Faith Mboya (Kibera Girls Soccer)
- Catherine Khaemba (Bungoma Queens)
- Emily Moranga (Kenya Police Bullets)
Tunisia Awaits in the Return Leg
After the first leg at Ulinzi Sports Complex, the return leg will take place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, in Tunis, Tunisia. The Starlets will need to make full use of their home advantage in Nairobi to secure a solid lead before heading to North Africa for the decisive encounter.
This match is more than just another fixture—it’s a pivotal moment in Kenyan women’s football. Qualifying for WAFCON 2026 would not only give the Starlets a chance to compete on the continental stage, but it would also boost the development of women’s football in Kenya.
Kenya’s last appearance in WAFCON, back in 2016, ended in a group-stage exit, but this squad is determined to write a new chapter in the history books. With the rising prominence of women’s football globally, this qualifier represents a chance for Kenya to stake its claim as a powerhouse in African football.
The Harambee Starlets will be banking on home support to fuel their performance. Kenyan fans are known for their passionate support, and their presence at Ulinzi Sports Complex could make all the difference. A packed stadium, roaring chants, and unwavering support will be crucial in pushing the Starlets towards victory.
