The countdown is on. In just a few days, Kenya’s Harambee Starlets will walk onto the pitch in Rabat to face hosts Morocco in the opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). It’s a massive moment for the team, who are back on the continent's biggest stage for the first time since 2016.
The girls have been putting in the work, far from home in a quiet camp in Miramas, France. The idea was to get used to conditions similar to what they'll face in Morocco. And while they haven't been able to play any warm-up friendlies – a concern for any coach – the week in France has been about more than just tactics.
"It's a good experience. The pitches are pristine," said attacking midfielder Fasila Adhiambo, who is gearing up for her first WAFCON. The team has been having double training sessions, pushing each other to the limit. But it hasn't all been smooth sailing. "There are things that we are not used to, like the food, but everyone is fighting," Adhiambo revealed with a laugh. It’s a small challenge for a team with big dreams.
Can They Make the Semis?
The team’s goal is clear: reach the semi-finals. That would not only be a historic achievement but would also punch their ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The 18-year-old forward Marion Serenge, who has World Cup experience from the U-17 level, is full of belief. "We plan to reach the semis, and given the way we have prepared, we have that belief that we will get there," she said confidently.
But let's be real – it's a tough ask. They've been drawn in Group A, which pundits have dubbed the "group of death". They'll face hosts Morocco (a team that will have the full stadium behind them), Senegal, and Algeria.
Their campaign starts with a blockbuster clash against the hosts on Sunday at 11 PM (EAT) . It’s a massive opener. A result there would be a huge statement.
Captain Mwanahalima "Dogo" Jereko, who missed the 2016 tournament due to exams, is hungry for this moment. "The preparations have been intense... this opportunity has come again," she said, reflecting a squad determined to make history. Goalkeeper Vivian Shinyonzo echoed this, saying the team is "working hard" to achieve their target.
The Simba FC disagreement: Sorted?
There was a bit of drama in the buildup. Coach Beldine Odemba openly expressed frustration with Tanzanian giants Simba Queens over the release of Kenyan players. It was a classic tug-of-war between a club and country, with Odemba claiming it was difficult to secure some of her key players.
However, the situation has resolved enough for the final squad to be named. Several Simba-based players, including stars like Ruth Ingosi and Fasila Adhiambo, are in Morocco. It appears that the federation-level talks mentioned by Odemba helped smooth things over.
The Squad: The Chosen Ones
Coach Beldine Odemba has named a strong squad mixing experienced campaigners with exciting young talent. Here is the full list of the warriors ready to do battle in Morocco:
Goalkeepers:
Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor, Vivian Shiyonzo.
Defenders:
Leah Andiema, Elizabeth Ochaka, Ruth Ingosi, Vivian Nasaka, Enez Mango, Euphrasier Shilwatso, Norah Ann, Mary Nthambi.
Midfielders:
Mwanalima Adam, Martha Amunyolete, Tereza Engesha, Fasila Adhiambo, Lorna Nyarinda, Mercy Airo, Airin Madalina, Shaline Nambengele.
Forwards:
Shirleen Opisa, Eglay Mukhwana, Marion Serenge, Violet Nanjala, Valerie Nekesa.
The stage is set. The Starlets have had their training, faced their challenges, and set their target. Now, it’s time to see if they can turn that French preparation into Moroccan glory.