Vivian Nasaka returns as Odemba names Harambee Starlets squad for Ivory Coast friendlies

Photo || FKF

Vivian Nasaka returns as Odemba names Harambee Starlets squad for Ivory Coast friendlies

Mark Kinyanjui 19:15 - 31.03.2025

Vivian Nasaka makes a return to the squad, while captain Dorcas Shikobe misses out through injury.

Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 23-player squad set to travel to Ivory Coast for two high-profile friendlies, with defender Vivian Nasaka making her return while captain Dorcas Shikobe misses out due to injury.

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Odemba has largely retained the squad that triumphed over Tunisia in the first round of the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers, making only a few additions—Nasaka, Ann Norah, Lucy Kwekwe, and Faith Mboya.

Nasaka, who was initially called up for the Tunisia clash, had to withdraw due to an injury suffered at her club, Hakkarigucuspor. Meanwhile, Mboya, who didn’t make the final squad for that qualifier, now gets a chance to prove herself in these crucial matches.

However, Starlets will have to do without their captain, Shikobe, who picked up an injury while playing for her Greek club, Sirines of Grevena.

Speaking about the squad selection, Odemba explained the significance of the friendlies in assessing the team’s progress.

“The purpose of these friendlies is to evaluate our progress, identify areas for improvement, and build on our strengths. That’s why I’ve made minimal changes to the squad from the Tunisia camp—to get a clear picture of where we stand as a team.”

She also acknowledged the absence of Shikobe, expressing her hope for the captain’s swift recovery.

“It’s unfortunate that we’ll be missing our captain, Dorcas Shikobe, due to an injury she picked up in Greece. I wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to having her back in our future matches.”

The team is set to depart for Abidjan on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, as they continue their journey toward securing a spot in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Travelling Squad

Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor

Defenders: Enez Mango, Janet Mumo, Ruth Ingosi, Tabitha Amoit, Wincate Kaari, Ann Norah, Vivian Nasaka

Midfielders: Corazone Aquino, Cynthia Shilwatso, Fasila Adhiambo, Lavender Akinyi, Lydia Akoth, Sheryl Angach

Forwards: Mwanalima Adam, Violet Nanjala, Elizabeth Wambui, Rebecca Okwaro, Lucy Kwekwe, Jentrix Shikangwa, Tereza Engesha , Faith Mboya

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