Harambee Starlets Stage Commanding Comeback to Beat Gambia in WAFCON Qualifier
NAIROBI, Kenya – The Harambee Starlets delivered a thrilling second-half performance to overcome an early deficit and secure a crucial 3-1 victory over Gambia in the first leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium.
The home side’s ambitions were tested early when Gambia’s Fatoumata Kante found the net in just the third minute, silencing the Nairobi crowd. However, the Starlets responded with resilience and purpose.
The comeback began in the 12th minute when Mwanahalima Adam calmly converted a penalty to level the score. The momentum shifted decisively in Kenya’s favor just seven minutes later, as Fasila Adhiambo scored to put the host nation in front.
The first-half dominance was capped in added time by striker Shirleen Opisa, who found the back of the net to give Coach Beldine Odemba’s squad a commanding 3-1 lead at the break.
The impressive victory did not go unnoticed, drawing immediate and generous praise from the highest office in the land. President William Ruto awarded the team KSh 10 million for the win and promised further financial rewards should they secure qualification to the tournament in Morocco.
“Hearty congratulations to our gallant Harambee Starlets for the 3-1 triumph over Gambia, a commanding performance that propels Kenya closer to qualification,” President Ruto stated in a post on X. “You have made Kenya proud and reaffirmed our nation’s growing strength in women’s sports.”
Encouraging the team as they prepare for the return leg, the President added, “As you prepare for the return leg, know that the entire nation stands behind you. Your success is our pride. Keep shining, keep winning.”
He concluded his message with a celebratory promise in Swahili, “Hongera Starlets! As promised, nitacheza kama mimi.” (Congratulations Starlets! As promised, I will dance my heart out.)
The win puts Kenya in a strong position to qualify for their first WAFCON since 2016. The decisive second leg is scheduled for October 28 in Senegal.
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