Harambee Starlets suffer second defeat to Russia in Pink Ladies Cup
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 26.10.24. | 22:17
Starlets will face the Philippines on Wednesday 30 October in their final group match
Harambee Starlets endured their second defeat in the ongoing Pink Ladies Cup in Turkey, falling 4-0 to Russia in a match held at Emirhan Stadium in Antalya, Türkiye on Saturday.
Under the watchful eye of Kenya Police Bullets' head coach Beldine Odemba, Starlets had a challenging start to the tournament, having previously lost 1-0 to Chinese Taipei in their opening game.
For the clash against Russia, Odemba made two changes to the starting team, with Elizabeth Mideva and Lavender Akinyi replacing Anyetu Purity and Lydia Akoth.
However, Russia, led by Yuri Krasnozhan, quickly overpowered Starlets, scoring two swift goals within the first ten minutes.
Dynamo Moscow winger Elena Shesterneva opened the scoring with a well-placed shot from inside the box in the sixth minute.
Just four minutes later, Tatiana Petrova won a free kick and delivered it perfectly to Veronika Kuropatkina, who headed it home to double Russia's lead.
Despite the early setback, Starlets tried to respond but could not find a breakthrough in the first half, with Russia maintaining possession and control.
In the second half, a defensive miscue allowed Valeria Bizenkova to tap in Russia's third goal.
Later, in the 80th minute, Kristina Komissarova capitalized on another defensive error, scoring Russia's fourth goal.
This defeat leaves Kenya without a point after two matches, having conceded six goals and yet to score.
Starlets will face the Philippines on Wednesday 30 October in their final group match.
The Pink Ladies Cup offers Kenya a chance to showcase its talent on an international stage, competing against teams from Asia and Europe.
Starting XI: Annedy Kundu, Vivian Nasaka, Ruth Ingosi, Wincate Kaari, Norah Ann, Lavender Akinyi, Lorna Nyarinda, Fasila Adhiambo, Elizabeth Mutukiza, Rebecca Okwaro, Elizabeth Mideva
Subs: Judith Osimbo, Lydia Akoth, Fanis Kwamboka, Mollyne Akinyi, Providence Khasiala, Robby Maxmilla, Anna Arusi, Alukwe Purity, Lucy Kwekwe, Purity Alukwe, Beverline Achieng