Odemba tips Harambee Starlets to break WAFCON knockout duck
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Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 27.02.26. | 14:08
Odemba revealed that plans for an international friendly against the South African women's national soccer team fell through after Banyana Banyana committed to the COSAFA tournament, forcing the Starlets to adjust their schedule
Kenya’s women’s national football team, the Harambee Starlets, have stepped up preparations ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with head coach Beldine Odemba backing her side to reach the knockout stage for the first time.
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As the 17 March kick-off draws closer, the squad have intensified training despite facing logistical setbacks in their buildup.
Odemba revealed that plans for an international friendly against the South African women's national soccer team fell through after Banyana Banyana committed to the COSAFA tournament, forcing the Starlets to adjust their schedule.
“We had planned to have a match against South Africa, but they will be participating in COSAFA, making it impossible for them to come here. But we still appreciate the opportunity we’ve gotten. The goal is to improve upon the 2016 debut performance where the team exited the tournament in the group stage,” said Odemba.
Kenya made their maiden WAFCON appearance in 2016 but failed to advance beyond the group stage.
This time, the tactician believes the blend of youth and experience gives them a realistic shot at rewriting history.
Veteran defender Dorcas Shikobe echoed the coach’s optimism, praising the hunger and maturity of the younger players.
“The young players have continued to learn from veteran players, and despite them being young, I’ve also learned from them. I’m confident that they will do their best,” she said.
The Starlets face a stern test in Group A, where they will take on hosts Morocco's women's national football team, alongside Algeria's women's national football team and Senegal's women's national football team.
Harambee Starlets urge President William Ruto and the Ministry of Sports to visit them ahead of their departure to Ivory Coast tomorrow.
— Don Teya (@TeyaKev) February 27, 2026
The team will play two friendlies in Ivory Coast before moving to Miramas, France, for final preparations ahead of the tournament in Morocco. pic.twitter.com/ZSh4GEYKBk
While the focus remains on tactical preparation, off-field concerns continue to simmer.
Star forward Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam has called for stronger visible support from government officials ahead of the team’s departure.
“We have not seen any government official showing up or giving support, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be financial support; showing up and encouraging us is enough for a start,” she said.
“This is a very big tournament, and the president should show up for the girl child the same way he did for the boy child during the CHAN tournament,” she added.
