Harambee Starlets beat Gambia 3–1 in WAFCON Qualifiers first leg at Nyayo Stadium

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 the Nyayo Stadium.

The Starlets had to come from behind after a shaky start that saw Fatoumata Kanteh capitalise on a defensive error by Lorine Ilavonga to give Gambia an early lead. However, the hosts quickly regrouped and turned the game around in style.

Kenya drew level in the 11th minute when Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam coolly converted from the penalty spot after a foul on Shalyne Opisa inside the box. Moments later, Shalyne almost doubled the lead, but her shot narrowly missed the post by inches.

The comeback was completed in the 23rd minute through Fasila Adhiambo, the Starlets’ U20 captain, who made a brilliant solo run from midfield before firing home to make it 2–1. Fasila’s influence in midfield was immense throughout the match, dictating play and inspiring confidence in her teammates.

Kenya nearly extended their lead in the 31st minute when Fasila again found the net from a Mwanahalima assist, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Goalkeeper Lilian Awuor, who had been instrumental in the previous round against Tunisia, pulled off several key saves, including a superb stop in the 27th minute to deny Gambia’s Oka Buwaro.

Just before halftime, the Starlets added a crucial third goal. Debutant Shalyne Opisa, playing her first international match, found the back of the net in added time (45+1’) after an assist from captain Ruth Ingosi, giving Kenya a commanding 3–1 lead heading into the break.

In the second half, Kenya maintained control, with Elizabeth Wambui and Fasila Adhiambo combining well in midfield. Wambui was later replaced by Tumaini Nafula, last season’s top scorer, in the 57th minute as coach Beldine Odemba sought to inject fresh attacking energy.

Gambia’s goalkeeper Aminata Gaye was forced off due to injury and replaced by Mary Gomez, while Oka Buwaro later made way for Fatah Jammeh. Despite the changes, Gambia struggled to break down Kenya’s compact defence.

Starlets made tactical substitutions in the 66th minute, introducing Corazone Aquino and Vivian Nasaka for Martha Amunyolet and Shalyne Opisa to stabilise the midfield and protect the lead. Nafula received a yellow card late in the game, but the Starlets comfortably held on for a well-deserved victory.

President William Ruto had earlier boosted the team’s morale with a Sh5 million cash reward ahead of the match and pledged further incentives Sh5 million for a home win, Sh2.5 million for a draw, and Sh1 million for an away victory that secures qualification.

The win gives Kenya a significant advantage heading into the return leg scheduled for October 28, where a draw or even a narrow defeat could still see them through to their second-ever WAFCON appearance, following their debut in 2016.

With determination, teamwork, and home support behind them, Beldine Odemba’s charges are now just one step away from booking their ticket to Morocco 2026.

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