Harambee Starlets lost 1-0 to Cameroon in their first leg of the 2024 WAFCON at the Stade de Reunification De Douala, Douala, on Friday.
The Indomitable Lionesses took the lead in the 11th minute of the match through a headed goal. Starlets were unable to respond and it ended 1-0 in favor of the hosts. The Indomitable Lionesses carry a narrow one-goal advantage to the second leg.
Kenya coach Beldine Odemba featured a squad blend of in-form local-based players and experienced foreign-based players. A noteworthy addition to the squad was Esse Akida, who made a return to the national team for the first time since 2018. She was also part of the squad that took Kenya to the WAFCON in the same year.
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Should Harambee Starlets emerge as the aggregate winners of the two-legged qualifier, they will face either Gabon or Botswana in the second round, scheduled between November 27 and December 5. The victor of the second round will secure automatic qualification for the 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations, hosted in Morocco. The return leg is scheduled to be played on Tuesday, September 26 at Nyayo Stadium.
Kenya starting XI: Annedy Kundu, Juliet Andibo, Ruth Ingosi, Corazon Aquino, Vivian Nasaka, Sheryl Angachi, Cynthia Shilwatso, Wincate Kaari, Mwanalima Adam, Esse Akida, and Tereza Engesha.
Subs: Caroline Rufa, Jentrix Shikangwa, Mercy Airo, Elizabeth Wambui, Lydia Akoth, Enez Mango, and Phoebe Owiti.