Kenya’s Harambee Starlets wrapped up their two-match friendly tour of Algeria on a high note after earning a well-deserved 1–1 draw on Sunday evening in Blida. The result, coming after a more challenging first outing, underlined the team’s steady progress as preparations intensify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The match opened with a rare twist when Algeria were forced into an early goalkeeper substitution just two minutes after kickoff. Kenya responded by settling quickly, with Martha Amunyolete firing the first warning a well-struck free-kick that curved narrowly over the bar.
Mwanalima Dogo Adam remained a constant menace throughout the first half, and she nearly found the breakthrough after a beautifully constructed move, only to watch her low effort roll inches wide of the upright. The Starlets, however, looked composed and confident on the ball, managing the tempo with maturity.
A tense first half saw Madalina Airin pick up a booking in the 38th minute, giving Algeria a dangerous free-kick. But Kenya’s backline held firm, ensuring the sides went into halftime level at 0–0.
Head coach Beldine Odemba made an inspired switch during the break, introducing Sheryl Muteshi for Wambui. The change injected fresh pace and sharper organisation in midfield, and the Starlets quickly took control of proceedings.
Their dominance finally paid off in the 65th minute. An Algerian defensive lapse gifted Dogo the moment she had been searching for, and the forward showed her class decisively and finishing with calm precision to hand Kenya a 1–0 lead.
Kenya pushed for a second, and they came heartbreakingly close in the 80th minute when Ruth Ingosi produced a brilliant backheel inside the box. The ball seemed destined for the net, but an Algerian defender intervened with a desperate goal-line clearance.
Just when a famous away win seemed within reach, Algeria struck back. Ines Belloumou snatched a late equaliser in the 93rd minute, punishing a rare lapse and denying the Starlets what would have been a statement victory.
Despite the frustrating ending, the Starlets will return home with heads high. Their structure, confidence and attacking intent improved significantly, while Dogo’s explosive form remains a major positive heading into next year’s WAFCON campaign. If this tour is a preview of what is to come, Kenya’s Harambee Starlets are building something promising and Africa is beginning to take notice.
