Wasteful Starlets rue chance with Tunisia calling for round two
Harambee Starlets race to the 2026 WAFCON (Women Africa Cup of Nations) seems steep following the Friday home goalless draw against Carthage Femeni of Tunisia at Ulinzi Complex.
Beldine Odemba’s side had good moments in the game to take advantage but failed to capitalize in front of their own crowd that included FKF president Hussein Mohamed, his deputy McDonald Mariga, and Homabay governor Gladys Wanga and Nominated legislator in the National Assembly Irene Mayaka amongst other leaders.
Starlets at home allowed Tunisia coached by Sami Trebelsi into the match which made the Kenyans play with pressure on their shoulders.
However, there were memorable displays from the likes of offensive midfielder Corazon Aquino of Tanzania giants Simba Queens, Kibera Queens right back Janet Mumo on her debut and forward Elizabeth Wambui who plies her trade with Simba Queens.
The closely contested encounter saw both sides create chances but fail to break the deadlock, setting up a high-stakes return leg in Tunisia next Wednesday.
According to Aquino, the difference in a match of such magnitude is the killer instinct upfront.
“I think we controlled most of the game, but luck was not on our side in converting chances. We have identified our weaknesses and still have time to make adjustments. Our focus now is on improving our finishing before the second leg.”
Kansa City FC in US striker Mwanahalima Adam on her part said; “It was a tough game and with the chances we had, we should have done better. But we have that behind our backs, and we promise to correct and do better in the second leg.”
Coach Odemba on her side was left frustrated over the rued chances promising to make adjustments in the return leg.
“We played well and were very tactical in our approach. We created numerous opportunities, especially from the wings, but couldn’t capitalize on them. When we go to Tunisia, it will be a different game. We will review this match to assess what worked and what we need to improve for the second leg.”
There was a general sense of disappointment with the fielding with most analysts and fans wondering why the bench seemed stronger with the likes of Simba Queens mercurial attacker Jentrix Shikangwa only just playing for four minutes in what essentially was an important home game.
Shikangwa is on a hot streak with 16 goals in the Tanzanian Women League and most expected the ex-Vihiga Queens striker to get a starting berth.
Key players on the bench during the first leg clash included; forward Janet Moraa (National Bank of Egypt), striker Terry Engesha (Hyundai Steel Red Angels) and forward Violet Nanjala (Morocco-Municipal De Laayounne).
The aggregate winner will advance to the final qualification round to face either Niger or Gambia. Starlets are eager to return to the WAFCON, having last featured in the tournament in 2016.
