Kenya’s Harambee Starlets sealed their place in the next round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Tunisia at the Stade Olympique de Sousse on Wednesday.
Lilian Awuor was the standout performer, saving two penalties to ensure Kenya’s progression, setting up a decisive final qualification round clash against Gambia in October.
Fast Start Seals the Deal for Starlets
After being frustrated in a goalless draw in Nairobi last week, the Starlets wasted no time asserting themselves in Tunisia.
The breakthrough came just nine minutes into the game, thanks to a defensive error from the hosts. Tunisia failed to clear their lines, and the ball fell perfectly to Tereza Engesha at the edge of the box. The forward cut inside and unleashed a low shot that slipped through the hands of Tunisian goalkeeper Zohra Jelassi and nestled into the bottom corner.
A golden goal by Terry Engesha #HarambeeStarlets pic.twitter.com/CFBQyzy1q9
— Harambee Starlets (@StarletsKE) February 26, 2025
It was the perfect start for Beldine Odemba’s side, who nearly doubled their advantage shortly after. Engesha, full of confidence, surged through midfield but was unable to get her shot away cleanly inside the box. Moments later, Mwanahalima Adam set up Jentrix Shikangwa, who fired over from close range.
Tunisia Push Back But Starlets Hold Firm
Despite Kenya’s strong start, Tunisia soon began to grow into the game. The home side relied on their tricky wingers Ella Kaabachi and Salma Zemzem to create chances, particularly targeting the left side of Kenya’s defense.
Left-back Janet Mumo found herself in several difficult situations, struggling to contain the rapid Zemzem. However, every time the Tunisian winger found space, goalkeeper Lilian Awuor was there to rescue her team with commanding saves.
As the rain began to pour in the closing moments of the first half, Tunisia were handed a golden opportunity to level the score. After Mumo’s challenge on Zemzem inside the penalty area, the referee pointed to the spot, awarding the hosts a crucial penalty.
Lillian’s penalty save from the first half #HarambeeStarlets pic.twitter.com/sBLo3FKZvZ
— Harambee Starlets (@StarletsKE) February 26, 2025
Kaabachi stepped up, confident of bringing Tunisia back into the game. But Awuor had other ideas. The Kenyan shot-stopper dived the right way, pushing away the initial effort before remarkably blocking Chirine Lamti’s follow-up attempt.
As Kenya quickly transitioned into attack, Elizabeth Wambui teed up Shikangwa inside the Tunisian box. However, in her attempt to control the ball, the Simba SC forward slipped, handling the ball and conceding possession.
More Tunisia Pressure, More Awuor Brilliance
The second half saw Tunisia continue their aggressive pursuit of an equalizer, throwing numbers forward while Kenya looked to absorb the pressure and strike on the counter.
Awuor was once again called into action early in the second period, bravely rushing off her line to deny Kaabachi from close range. Her dominance in the air was also on full display, as she confidently dealt with several dangerous set-piece deliveries from the Tunisians.
Despite Tunisia’s pressure, Kenya remained organized, frustrating their opponents while also creating chances on the break.
Late Drama: Another Penalty, Another Awuor Save
With 15 minutes left to play, Tunisia found a lifeline. A seemingly harmless cross into the Kenyan penalty area was mishandled by Awuor, allowing substitute Sabrine Ellouzi to pounce. In her attempt to recover, Awuor tripped the forward, leading to Tunisia’s second penalty of the game.
Once again, the Kenyan keeper stood tall. Ellouzi stepped up, but Awuor guessed correctly, diving to her left and comfortably collecting the weak attempt. It was a defining moment that crushed Tunisia’s hopes and secured Starlets’ place in the next round.
Starlets Set for Final Qualification Battle Against Gambia
Kenya’s victory means they will now face Gambia in October for a place in the 2026 WAFCON. The two-legged tie will determine whether Harambee Starlets can return to the continental stage, having last participated in the tournament in 2016.
For head coach Beldine Odemba, this result provides much-needed relief. After facing scrutiny for the team’s performance in Nairobi, the response in Tunisia demonstrated resilience, tactical discipline, and unwavering belief.
While Kenya still has work to do before securing their place at WAFCON, this performance, and particularly Awuor’s heroics, will serve as a massive confidence boost heading into the final round of qualifiers.
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