Big names miss out as Harambee Starlets name squad for Pink Ladies Tournament in Turkey

Czech Republic-based striker Marjolene Nekesa is among notable omissions ©FKF

Big names miss out as Harambee Starlets name squad for Pink Ladies Tournament in Turkey

Festus Chuma 10:45 - 21.10.2024

Kenya's women's national football team has announced a 21-member squad for an international tournament in Turkey.

Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 21-member squad set to represent Kenya in the upcoming Pink Ladies Cup scheduled to take place in Turkey from October 22 to 31, 2024.

The tournament, which will feature four nations—Kenya, Russia, Chinese Taipei and the Philippines—marks an important opportunity for the Starlets to return to international competition after a period of inactivity.

The Starlets' journey in the tournament kicks off on Wednesday, October 23, when they face Chinese Taipei in the opening match at Emirhan Stadium, with kickoff set for 4:00 pm.

This will be followed by two more challenging fixtures: a clash against Russia on October 26 at 7:00 pm and a final group match against the Philippines on October 30 at 4:00 pm, both at the same venue.

This tournament will provide the Kenyan women's national football team with a platform to not only showcase their talent but also gauge their progress against teams from Asia and Europe.

Harambee Starlets have been inactive for several months following their elimination from the 2024 Africa Women's Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers, making this event an eagerly awaited return to the international stage.

Despite the long break from competitive action, the squad announced by Odemba is packed with familiar faces.

Many of the players who participated in the AWCON qualifiers have been called up for this tournament, reflecting the coach's confidence in their ability to deliver results.

One of the standout inclusions is Simba SC striker Elizabeth Mutukiza, who is expected to lead the Starlets' attack with her goal-scoring prowess.

However, some of the team's familiar faces, including the likes of Marjolene Nekesa, Corazon Aquino, Jentrix Shikangwa, Mwanahalima Jereko, Esse Akida, and Terry Engesha, have been left out of the squad for this tournament.

The squad features a balanced mix of experienced players and promising talent.

In goal, the team will be relying on the experience of Annedy Kundu and Judith Osimbo.

The defensive line, which will be crucial in holding off tough opposition, includes key players like Fanis Kwamboka, Mollyne Akinyi, Vivian Nasaka, and Ruth Ingosi, alongside younger talents such as Lavender Akinyi and Norah Ann.

In the midfield, the Starlets boast an array of dynamic players, including Providence Khasiala, Lydia Akoth, and Fasila Adhiambo, who are known for their ability to control the pace of the game.

Upfront, alongside Mutukiza, forwards like Anna Arusi, Elizabeth Mideva, and Rebecca Okwaro will be aiming to exploit defensive weaknesses and create scoring opportunities.

The Pink Ladies Cup will serve as a critical stepping stone for the Starlets, as they aim to regain momentum after the disappointment of missing out on AWCON qualification.

Facing opponents from different regions, with varying styles of play, will provide the Kenyan side with valuable experience ahead of future competitions.

Harambee Starlets travelling squad:

Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu, Judith Osimbo

Defenders: Fanis Kwamboka, Mollyne Akinyi, Vivian Nasaka, Ruth Ingosi, Lavender Akinyi, Wincate Kaari, Norah Ann

Midfielders :Providence Khasiala, Lydia Akoth, Lorna Nyarinda, Fasila Adhiambo, Robby Maxmilla

Forwards : Elizabeth Mutukiza, Anna Arusi, Elizabeth Mideva, Rebecca Okwaro, Lucy Kwekwe, Purity Alukwe, Achieng Beverline