Harambee Starlets set for WAFCON qualifier against Tunisia as Ulinzi Sports Complex named host venue

Harambee Starlets set for WAFCON qualifier against Tunisia as Ulinzi Sports Complex named host venue

Harambee Starlets will face Tunisia in the second round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers, with the first leg set for 21st February at Ulinzi Sports Complex. Head coach Beldine Odemba has named her provisional squad and emphasised the need for an attacking approach as the team begins preparations.

Harambee Starlets’ road to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) begins on 21st February 2025, with Tunisia standing in their way in the second-round qualifiers. The team, under head coach Beldine Odemba, kicked off their training camp on 10th February, as the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed the venue for the first-leg encounter.

“Ulinzi Sports Complex will be the venue for Harambee Starlets’ 2026 WAFCON qualifier home match against Tunisia on Friday, 21st February 2025,” FKF announced.

The return leg is set for 25th February in Tunisia, where Starlets will look to seal their place in the next stage. Speaking after the start of camp, Odemba acknowledged the challenge ahead but remained optimistic about her squad’s chances.

“We’re ready to give them a real test,” she said.

The coach emphasised the importance of an attacking approach in the home fixture, highlighting the need to take control early.

“Tunisia is a strong side, but we are ready for the challenge ahead. In our home match, we need to score and press forward aggressively to secure a positive result,” she stated.

Odemba also defended her decision to integrate young talents into the squad, stressing that their inclusion is key to long-term success.

“The youth are the future of football. Bringing them into the senior team helps build a conveyor belt of talent,” she noted.

She cited former Junior Starlets captain Elizabeth Ochaka as an example of successful youth development, referencing her role in leading Kenya to its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Harambee Starlets will be aiming for a strong start at home before making the trip to North Africa, where their qualification hopes will be decided.

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