Harambee Starlets secured a crucial 1-0 win over Tunisia, showcasing tactical discipline, resilience and smart game management to advance.
On Wednesday night, Kenya’s Harambee Starlets displayed a disciplined and tactically astute performance to secure a 1-0 victory over Tunisia in the second leg of their Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier at the Stade Olympique de Sousse.
The win, courtesy of an early goal from Tereza Engesha ensured Kenya progressed to the final round of qualification setting up a clash against Gambia.
Kenya’s defensive discipline was key to frustrating Tunisia’s attacking ambitions. The backline, led by captain Dorcas Shikobe remained compact,cutting off passing lanes and forcing Tunisia to play through congested central areas.
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Fullbacks Eneza Mango and Janet Mumo balanced their attacking and defensive duties well, preventing Tunisia from exploiting the wide areas. Despite Mumo’s nervy moments, including conceding a penalty, the team’s overall defensive organization ensured Tunisia struggled to find clear-cut chances.
The Starlets' pressing strategy and midfield control were crucial in dictating the game’s tempo. Kenya deployed an intelligent high press in phases, forcing Tunisia into rushed decisions when building from the back.
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Midfielders Lavender Akinyi, Corazone Aquino, and Elizabeth Wambui played pivotal roles in regaining possession and controlling second balls. Their ability to intercept and quickly transition from defense to attack helped bypass Tunisia’s pressing game, allowing Kenya to create promising counter-attacking opportunities.
Starlet’s coach Beldine Odemba made crucial tactical adjustments from the first leg, where Kenya struggled to break Tunisia down. Recognizing the need for a more aggressive approach, she introduced Tereza Engesha and Jentrix Shikangwa in the attack.
Engesha’s inclusion proved instrumental, as she pounced on a defensive lapse by Tunisia’s Rania Aouina to score the decisive goal. Odemba’s timely substitutions also played a role in maintaining Kenya’s dominance, with Violet Nanjala replacing Shikangwa to add fresh legs in attack and Sherly Angach coming in to bolster the midfield.
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Kenya effectively exploited Tunisia’s defensive weaknesses, particularly their susceptibility to pace and wide play. The Starlets used diagonal balls and quick attacking runs to trouble Tunisia’s backline. Engesha’s goal exemplified this approach; she intercepted a misplaced pass, weaved past defenders and unleashed a stunning long-range shot beyond Tunisia’s goalkeeper, Barka Machado. Kenya’s strategy of utilizing width and speed to break down Tunisia’s defensive organization proved decisive.
After taking the lead, Kenya managed the game expertly as the team remained compact and disciplined, frustrating Tunisia’s attempts to equalize. Goalkeeper Lilian Awuor was exceptional, saving two penalties and ensuring Kenya maintained their slender lead.
The Starlets used tactical fouls when necessary and slowed the tempo to disrupt Tunisia’s rhythm. Their ability to withstand sustained pressure, particularly in the second half, highlighted the team’s growing maturity and composure in high-stakes matches.
Looking ahead to the next round against Gambia, Kenya can take several positives from this performance. The team’s defensive solidity and structured pressing will be vital against a Gambia side that has shown attacking prowess in their qualifiers.
However, areas for improvement remain, particularly in finishing. Kenya had several goal-scoring opportunities but failed to convert, an issue that needs addressing before facing a team that has been clinical in front of goal.
Ball retention under pressure is another area the Starlets should refine to avoid unnecessary turnovers in midfield.
Tactically, Kenya might need to adapt against Gambia’s playing style, which could differ from Tunisia’s structured approach. Odemba may consider reinforcing the midfield further or deploying a more balanced attacking strategy to break down the Gambian defense.
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The upcoming clash promises to be an intense contest, with both teams vying for a historic qualification to WAFCON 2026.