Kenya’s women’s national football team, Harambee Starlets, took a massive step toward qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after defeating The Gambia 3–1 in the first leg of the final qualifying round played on Friday afternoon at Nyayo Stadium.
The Starlets had to come from behind after a shaky start that saw Fatoumata Kanteh capitalize on a defensive lapse by Lorine Ilavonga to put Gambia ahead in the third minute. However, the hosts regrouped quickly and turned the game around in style.
Kenya drew level in the 10th minute when Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam coolly converted from the penalty spot after Shalyne Opisa was brought down inside the box. Moments later, Opisa came close to doubling the lead, but her effort rolled inches wide.
The comeback was completed in the 23rd minute through Fasila Adhiambo, the Starlets’ U20 captain, who showed strength and composure with a brilliant solo run from midfield before firing home to make it 2–1. Fasila’s dominant display in midfield inspired confidence and controlled the tempo for Beldine Odemba’s charges.
Kenya nearly extended their lead in the 31st minute when Adhiambo found the net again from a Mwanahalima assist, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Lilian Awuor, who was instrumental in the previous round against Tunisia, made a crucial save to deny Gambia’s Oka Buwaro in the 27th minute.
Just before halftime, the Starlets added a crucial third goal. Debutant Shalyne Opisa, playing her first senior international match, latched onto a precise pass from captain Ruth Ingosi and slotted home in first-half added time (45+1’) to give Kenya a 3–1 lead going into the break.
After the restart, Kenya maintained control of the match. Elizabeth Wambui and Adhiambo combined well in midfield, while coach Beldine Odemba made tactical changes in the 57th minute—bringing in Tumaini Nafula, last season’s top scorer, to add fresh attacking energy. Later substitutions saw Corazone Aquino and Vivian Nasaka replace Martha Amunyolet and Opisa to help secure the result.
Gambia’s efforts to fight back were blunted by Kenya’s disciplined defending. Their goalkeeper Aminata Gaye was forced off due to injury and replaced by Mary Gomez, but even with fresh legs, the visitors struggled to penetrate the Starlets’ backline.
President William Ruto had earlier boosted the team’s morale with a Sh5 million cash reward promise before the match and pledged further bonuses — Sh5 million for a home win, Sh2.5 million for a draw, and Sh1 million for an away victory that seals qualification.
The win gives Kenya a crucial advantage heading into the second leg in Senegal on October 28, where they only need to avoid defeat to seal their return to the WAFCON — a tournament they last featured in 2016, their first and only appearance to date.
With determination, teamwork, and a passionate home crowd behind them, Harambee Starlets are now just one step away from booking their ticket to Morocco 2026.
