Harambee Starlets have a tricky match away to Tunisia on Wednesday but must ensure they win to seal their place in the final round of WAFCON qualifiers.
Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba and her team have their backs against the wall as they take on Tunisia in a 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Odemba’s team fluffed their lines at Ulinzi Complex last Friday to record a dour goalless draw in a match the tactician was heavily criticised for her selection and tactics.
Preview
Kenya could have scored at least a goal or two but failed and now must avoid conceding on enemy territory and ensure they get one over the line to proceed to the next round.
A scoring draw could still suffice as they would go through on away goals but that would be a risky approach.
Tunisia, meanwhile, played a cautious game in Nairobi, opting to stay tight at the back with the view to finishing it off at home and are expected to come all out against Kenya.
That could actually be a good thing for Odemba’s charges as they can take advantage of the gaps left behind by the North Africans to hit them on the break and secure the result that they need.
Harambee Starlets Team News
Odemba named a 23-member squad for the return leg in Tunisia and resisted the temptation of tinkering with the team, maintaining the same players who were selected for the first leg.
However, changes in the starting XI are inevitable after what was witnessed on Friday and among those expected in is striker Jentrix Shikangwa, whose 90th minute introduction raised eyebrows at Ulinzi Complex.
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South African legend Benni McCarthy has reportedly decided on the men who will join his technical bench when he takes over as Harambee Stars coach.
Is this Odemba’s last match?
However, while she is planning for Wednesday’s match, Starlets coach Odemba is on the brink of getting sacked following reports that Football Kenya Federation has lined up former tactician Alex Alumirah to replace her.
Alumirah is said to be on standby and was even lined up to travel with the team to Tunisia, showing the tricky situation she finds herself in.
Time and where to watch
The match will kick off at 6pm Kenyan time at the Stade Olympique de Sousse in Tunisia. Keep it Pulse Sports for more information on where to catch the action.
What’s next for Starlets if they win
Benni McCarthy is poised to be appointed as new Harambee Stars coach.
If they win, Harambee Starlets will take on either Niger and The Gambia in what would be the final round of the qualifiers and if they triumph, then they will seal a place at WAFCON 2026, their second-ever appearance since their debut in 2016.
