Harambee Starlets Defeat Gambia to Secure WAFCON 2026 Qualification

The Harambee Starlets have booked their ticket to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Gambia in the return leg of the third-round qualifier held on Tuesday evening at Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal. The Kenyan side sealed their qualification with a 4-1 aggregate win, following their 3-1 triumph in Nairobi last Friday.

How Did the Starlets Clinch Their Spot at WAFCON 2026?

After a tight first half, forward Mwanahalima Adam Jereko broke the deadlock in the 59th minute, scoring the decisive goal that sent Kenya back to the continental stage for the first time since 2016. Head coach Beldine Odemba’s side showed discipline and composure, maintaining control despite Gambia’s late pressure.

Shyline Opisa almost opened the scoring in the 24th minute, but her effort was cleared by Gambian goalkeeper Aminata Gaye. Six minutes later, Martha Amunyolet came close again with a well-taken free kick, but the keeper was alert to deny her. Gambia’s best opportunity came in the 74th minute when Fatou Kanteh, who plays for Sevilla in Spain, forced a strong save from Kenya’s shot-stopper Lilian Awuor to keep the scoreline intact.

In the first leg in Nairobi, Kenya’s dominant performance saw goals from Adam, Fasila Adhiambo, and Shirleen Opisa, giving the team a comfortable cushion heading into the return leg. Their qualification not only marks a historic return to WAFCON but also comes with a major reward: each player will receive Ksh1 million from President William Ruto, who had pledged the bonus if they secured qualification.

What Does This Qualification Mean for Kenyan Women’s Football?

Kenya’s return to the WAFCON stage symbolizes resilience and growth. Their first and only appearance came in 2016 in Cameroon, where they faced tough opposition in Group B against Nigeria, Mali, and Ghana but failed to progress past the group stage. This time, the team heads to Morocco with renewed belief and experience gained from years of rebuilding.

Before overcoming Gambia, the Starlets eliminated Tunisia in the previous round after securing a crucial 1-0 away win, thanks to goalkeeper Lilian Awuor’s penalty heroics that kept their dream alive.

The Harambee Starlets’ qualification journey stands as a testament to determination and unity. As they prepare to face Africa’s best between March 17 and April 3 in Morocco, the team has reignited national pride and restored hope for women’s football in Kenya.

By Yockshard Enyendi