Harambee Starlets face Tanzania in CECAFA final showdown
Harambee Starlets will take on hosts Tanzania in the final of the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Challenge Cup on Saturday. Both teams are unbeaten and have yet to concede a goal, setting the stage for a thrilling finale in Dar es Salaam.
The 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Challenge Cup reaches its climax on Saturday as Harambee Starlets take on hosts Tanzania in the final at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam. Kick-off is scheduled for 6PM EAT.
Both teams have been in commanding form throughout the tournament—unbeaten and yet to concede a goal. Kenya, champions in 2019, are aiming to reclaim the regional title and equal Tanzania’s record of three CECAFA titles, while the hosts are seeking a third title on home soil after wins in 2016 and 2018.
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Captain Dorcas Shikobe says the team is focused and determined to bring the trophy back home.
“It has been a good tournament so far, and the team has fought hard to remain unbeaten. We will carry the same momentum into the final. We expect a tough match, but we promise our fans that we are going for the title,” Shikobe said.
Head coach Beldine Odemba echoed the captain’s sentiments, saying the team is drawing inspiration from their 2019 title run.
“We’re preparing with full concentration. The players know what’s at stake, and we are approaching the game with belief and discipline,” she said.
Odemba will be banking on her defence, led by the experienced Shikobe, to contain Tanzania’s in-form striker Opa Clement, who plays for Simba SC and has been one of the tournament's standout performers.
In goal, Romania-based Lilian Awuor is expected to start after a strong showing in previous matches. She has been a key figure in Kenya’s run to the final, pulling off crucial saves when called upon. Annette Kundu, who started in the group match against South Sudan, also impressed as Kenya sealed their place in the final without conceding.
In attack, Vihiga Queens’ forward Martha Amunyolet has been in fine form, scoring four goals and firmly in contention for the Golden Boot. She will be supported by Morocco-based Violet Nanjala and Faith Mboya. Young striker Elizabeth Ochaka is also pushing for a place in the starting line-up after scoring off the bench against South Sudan.
“This tournament has given me confidence,” Ochaka said. “I want to keep improving and help the team however I can.”
The final promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams looking to cap off unbeaten campaigns in style.
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