Harambee Starlets Edge Closer to WAFCON 2026 After Dominant Win Over Gambia

Kenya’s Harambee Starlets have taken a major step toward securing qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after earning an impressive 3-1 first-leg victory over The Gambia on Friday in Nairobi.

Heading into the final round of qualifiers, the Starlets were determined to end their 10-year wait for another WAFCON appearance, knowing that a strong first-leg performance would set them up well for the return match. However, their campaign began in the worst possible way.

Just three minutes into the game, a defensive lapse gifted The Gambia an early advantage. Lavender Akinyi’s back pass to Lorine Ilavonga put the defender under pressure, and her failure to clear the ball allowed Spain-based striker Fatoumata Kante to pounce and calmly slot past goalkeeper Lilian Awuor for the opener.

Fortunately for Kenya, the early setback was short-lived. Seven minutes later, the Starlets were back on level terms. Shalyne Opisa was brought down inside the penalty box, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam stepped up confidently and buried her shot into the top left corner, leaving the Gambian goalkeeper with no chance.

Adhiambo Sparks Kenya’s Comeback

Kenya nearly grabbed a second in the 13th minute when Opisa broke into the box but narrowly missed the target. However, their persistence paid off six minutes later. Fasila Adhiambo, just 19 years old, produced a moment of brilliance, muscling past two defenders before unleashing a thunderous strike that flew past the Gambian goalkeeper to make it 2-1.

The home side continued to dominate, creating several more opportunities. In the 29th minute, Elizabeth Wambui sent in a dangerous cross that forced the goalkeeper to push the ball out for a corner. Kenya thought they had added a third moments later when Adam set up Opisa for a neat finish, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Starlets Seal the Advantage Before the Break

Kenya’s relentless pressure finally paid off again in added time of the first half. Martha Amunyolet spotted Opisa making a clever run between the Gambian central defenders and delivered a precise pass. Opisa made no mistake from close range, slotting home her first goal of the night and extending Kenya’s lead to 3-1 before halftime.

In the second half, coach Beldine Odemba’s charges adopted a more cautious approach, lowering the tempo to preserve their advantage. The Gambia tried to fight back and tested Awuor on a few occasions, but they failed to convert their chances.

Kenya’s best opportunity after the break fell once again to Adam, whose flicked effort narrowly missed the target. Despite a few nervous moments, the Starlets held firm to secure a two-goal cushion ahead of the second leg.

The convincing 3-1 victory puts Kenya in a commanding position as they prepare for the return fixture in Senegal next week. The Starlets only need to avoid defeat to book their place at the 2026 WAFCON.