Harambee Starlets coach Odemba targets redemption after WAFCON qualifier stumble

Hrambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba.

Harambee Starlets coach Odemba targets redemption after WAFCON qualifier stumble

Stephen Awino 11:03 - 22.02.2025

Harambee Starlets enjoyed dominance in their first leg of the double header 2026 WAFCON qualifier fixture against Tunisia but were frustrated to a stalemate.

Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba is determined to rectify mistakes after her side was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Tunisia on Friday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

The match, which marked the first leg of their double-header 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers fixture, saw Starlets dominate but fail to capitalize on their chances.

Despite their attacking intent, Odemba’s charges were unable to break through a resolute Tunisian defense.

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The North Africans held firm, denying the Starlets a crucial home advantage ahead of the return leg.

Key players Mwanahalima ‘Dogo’ Jereko and Corazone Aquino enjoyed bright spells but struggled to convert their efforts into goals.

Reflecting on the match in a post-match interview, Odemba acknowledged the missed opportunity but remained optimistic.

She pinpointed areas for improvement and promised a stronger performance in the second leg.

“We played well, we were tactical against them. You could see that we used our wings and created many chances; it’s only that we didn’t take them," said Odemba ruing the missed opportunity.

The Kenya Police Bullets tactician pinpointed areas for improvement and promised a stronger performance in the second leg.

"If you noticed, we played two number nines, and that’s something we shall look into during training. Believe me, it’s going to be a very different game," she noted.

"Playing at home and playing away are two different scenarios. When we go to Tunisia, they will open up, and we will do the same because we need to score goals,” said Odemba.

The Starlets tactician reiterated that her team executed their game plan but would make necessary adjustments ahead of the return fixture.

The side now shift focus to the second leg, scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, at the Stade Olympique de Sousse in Tunisia.

With qualification on the line, Kenya will be eager to deliver a decisive performance and secure a spot in the next round of the WAFCON qualifiers.

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