The Harambee Starlets are set for a high-stakes encounter as they take on Tunisia in the second leg of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier at the Stade Olympique de Sousse in Tunis. After a frustrating goalless draw in the first leg in Nairobi, Kenya must secure either a win or a scoring draw to progress to the final qualification round. The match kicks off at 6 PM (EAT), and the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams.
Starlets Look to Bounce Back from First-Leg Frustration
Kenya dominated the first leg, creating several goal-scoring opportunities but failing to convert their chances. Head coach Beldine Odemba, who is under immense pressure, believes her team executed their game plan well but lacked the cutting edge in front of goal.
“We played well. We were tactical against them, and you could see that we were still able to use the wings. Our main undoing is that we got a lot of chances but couldn’t convert them,” Odemba said.
The Starlets started the first leg with two strikers, but despite their offensive setup, they couldn’t break down Tunisia’s defense. This time, Odemba is confident that Tunisia will open up more, giving her side opportunities to exploit spaces.
“I believe it’s going to be a different match when we play away compared to playing at home. When we go to Tunisia, believe me, they will open the game, and we will equally open the game because we need to score goals,” she added.
Tunisia’s Home Struggles Offer Hope for Kenya
Tunisia has been inconsistent on home soil, suffering defeats to Morocco and Tanzania, the latter handing them a 5-0 thrashing in a friendly match last July. However, the North Africans bounced back with a win over Botswana, the same team that eliminated Kenya in the last WAFCON qualifiers.
While Tunisia has shown resilience, their defensive vulnerabilities give Kenya hope of securing a positive result. With a more clinical approach in front of goal, Starlets can capitalize on Tunisia’s weaknesses and book a spot in the next round.
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Harambee Starlets’ Game Plan for the Second Leg
Odemba has hinted at a more attacking approach in Tunisia, with an emphasis on converting chances. The Starlets’ strength lies in their ability to stretch the game on the wings, with speedsters like Mwanalima Adam and Jentrix Shikangwa expected to play crucial roles.
“We played according to plan. We cannot open our book wide. We just have to peep through the pages and see what can work for us in the second match,” Odemba said, signaling possible tactical adjustments.
With the team needing at least one goal to have a chance of progression, players like Violet Nanjala and Elizabeth Wambui will need to step up in the attacking third.
What’s at Stake?
Should Kenya advance, they will face the winner between Niger and The Gambia in the final qualification round. A victory in that tie would see them book a ticket to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, marking a significant achievement for women’s football in Kenya.
However, the pressure is mounting, not just on the team but on Odemba as well. Reports suggest that this could be her final game in charge, regardless of the outcome, as the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is already considering replacements.
JamboBet Predictions & Betting Tips
Full-Time Winner Prediction – Tunisia 1-2 Kenya
The Harambee Starlets have shown they can compete against strong opposition, and Tunisia’s home struggles make this a winnable game for Kenya. If the Starlets take their chances, they should edge out Tunisia for a crucial away victory.
Both Teams to Score (GG) – Yes
With both teams needing a result, an open game is expected. Kenya will push forward in search of an away goal, while Tunisia will aim to capitalize on home advantage. This could lead to both teams finding the net.
Over 2.5 Goals – Yes
Given the attacking intent of both sides, a high-scoring encounter is likely. With Kenya determined to break their scoring drought and Tunisia keen to capitalize on home soil, expect at least three goals in the match.
Harambee Starlets Travelling Squad
Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor
Defenders: Dorcas Shikobe, Enez Mango, Janet Mumo, Ruth Ingosi, Elizabeth Ochaka, Tabitha Amoit
Midfielders: Corazone Aquino, Cynthia Shilwatso, Fasila Adhiambo, Lavender Akinyi, Lydia Akoth, Sheryl Angach
Forwards: Mwanalima Adam, Violet Nanjala, Elizabeth Wambui, Janet Bundi, Rebecca Okwaro, Elizabeth Mideva, Emily Moranga, Jentrix Shikangwa, Tereza Engesha
Final Thoughts
The Harambee Starlets face a defining moment in their WAFCON qualification campaign. A strong performance in Tunisia could propel them to the final qualification round, keeping their dream of playing at the continental tournament alive. However, they must overcome their finishing woes and execute their game plan to perfection.
With Odemba’s future uncertain and the pressure mounting, this is more than just a football match—it’s a battle for pride, progress, and a place in WAFCON 2025.
