Harambee Starlets fall 2–1 to Algeria in WAFCON warm-up friendly
Despite the defeat, Kenya showed encouraging signs ahead of their return to the continental stage at WAFCON 2026.
The Harambee Starlets fell to a narrow 2–1 defeat against Algeria in an international friendly at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida, a match that offered valuable insight as Kenya fine-tunes preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Kenya began the match with urgency and confidence, immediately pushing forward on the counter.
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In the third minute, Shirleen Opisa produced the first real chance of the game, testing the Algerian goalkeeper with a dangerous effort. The early pressure paid off in the 15th minute when veteran forward Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam pounced on a defensive mistake to slot home the opener, giving Kenya a deserved lead.
Algeria responded by increasing their attacking tempo, but Kenyan goalkeeper Lilian Awuor remained composed, making a crucial save in the 30th minute to keep her side in front. The Starlets managed the remaining first-half pressure well and went into the break leading 1–0.
The hosts returned from halftime with renewed determination and found an equaliser just two minutes into the second half. The quick goal shifted momentum, and Algeria began dictating the tempo as Kenya sought opportunities on the break. Despite promising movement in midfield and several dangerous transitions, the Starlets lacked the cutting edge needed to retake the lead.
Coach Beldine Odemba introduced fresh legs in the 72nd minute, bringing on Corazone Aquino and Valarie Nekesa for Martha Amunyolete and Medina Abubakar. The changes helped stabilise Kenya, and Awuor kept them in the contest with another brilliant stop in the 82nd minute.
However, Algeria’s pressure eventually told. In the closing stages of the match, the hosts found the decisive goal to complete the comeback and seal a 2–1 victory. The two sides will meet again on Sunday in their second friendly match.
Despite the defeat, Kenya showed encouraging signs ahead of their return to the continental stage at WAFCON 2026. Having already secured qualification with a 4–1 aggregate win over The Gambia, the Starlets will view this friendly as an important learning opportunity as they continue building toward a stronger showing next year.
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