Harambee Starlets resume action after 323 days with a date against Chinese Taipei

Exactly 323 days since their last international assignment, Harambee Starlets are back in action on Wednesday 23 October as they take on Chinese Taipei. 

The Beldine Odemba-led side is part of a four-nation invitational Pink Ladies Cup tournament in Antalya, Turkey. The other teams are Russia and The Philippines. 

Starlets ranked 151st globally, begin their tournament against the 41st-ranked Taiwanese side, a herculean task given the Kenya side is missing a majority of their key players.

This is the team’s first international competition of the year, their last assignment was in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Botswana on Tuesday 5 December 2023. 

Kenya narrowly missed out on a chance to grace the continental showpiece after losing to Botswana 2-1 on aggregate. They drew 1-1 at home before losing 1-0 in Gaborone.

Coach Odemba will have her first-choice goalkeeper Annedy Kundu as one of the most experienced starters alongside defenders Vivian Nasaka, Ruth Ingosi and Wincate Kaari as a majority make their debut for the team. 

Upfront, the tactician is likely to rely on Rebecca Okwaro, the second-highest scorer in the just-concluded campaign with league Most Valuable Player (MVP) Lydia Akoth marshalling the midfield. 

They miss the services of KISPED Queens goalkeeper Lavender Abongo who was impressive in the opening league matches, earning herself a maiden call up. She, however, could not acquire her travel documents in time for the short-notice trip.

"I am really disappointed because it was a great opportunity for me but there is nothing I can do for now, I just have to focus and continuing giving my best on the pitch," she told Citizen Digital

The side has a date with Russia on Saturday, 26 October, wrapping up against the Philippines on Wednesday, 30 October.

Harambee Starlets Squad:

Goalkeepers:

Annedy Kundu

Judith Osimbo

Defenders:

Fanis Kwamboka

Mollyne Akinyi

Vivian Nasaka

Ruth Ingosi

Lavender Akinyi

Wincate Kaari

Norah Ann

Kenya U20 goalkeeper sets eyes on World Cup after AFCON qualification

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