Gambia Forward Outlines How Queen Scorpions Plan to Stop Harambee Starlets’ WAFCON Dream

Gambia forward Ola Buwaro says her team is far from giving up and is prepared with a clear plan to challenge the Harambee Starlets in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier.

Despite trailing by two goals after the first leg, Buwaro believes the Queen Scorpions still have a real chance to turn the tie around and secure a historic qualification for their first-ever WAFCON appearance.

The Gambian side fell 3-1 to Kenya’s Harambee Starlets in the first leg of the final qualifying round at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. The visitors made a dream start when captain Fatoumata Kanteh pounced on a defensive lapse to put Gambia ahead just three minutes into the match.

Kenya, however, quickly responded with an impressive comeback. Mwanalima Adam equalized from the penalty spot in the 12th minute before Fasila Adhiambo fired the hosts ahead seven minutes later with a stunning solo goal. Shalyne Opisa extended the lead shortly before halftime, giving Kenya a 3-1 advantage going into the break.

The second half was a more balanced affair, with both sides creating chances but failing to add to the scoreline, leaving Kenya firmly in control ahead of the return leg.

Gambia Confident Ahead of the Return Match

To qualify, Gambia must win by at least two clear goals in the second leg which a difficult task, but not impossible according to Buwaro. Speaking to Telecomasia.net, the Lokomotiv Moscow striker said the away goal they scored in Kenya has boosted the team’s confidence and belief.

“The game isn’t finished yet. It’s still open, 50-50,” Buwaro said. “Scoring away from home gives us an advantage because we now understand how Kenya plays. We’ve studied their strengths and weaknesses, and we know what to do differently this time.”

Buwaro stressed that the team’s determination and belief will drive them to push for an upset. “We trust in our abilities and we’re determined to make history for Gambia. We just need to be clinical in front of the goal and make sure we keep Kenya from scoring,” she added.

With Gambia lacking an approved home venue, the decisive second leg will be hosted in Senegal, a neutral ground that could make the contest even more unpredictable.

For the Queen Scorpions, the dream is still alive, and according to Ola Buwaro, the final whistle hasn’t blown just yet.