In a thrilling display of determination, Kenya’s Harambee Starlets have secured their spot in the second round of the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers. The jubilation among Kenyan fans is hard to explain as the Starlets overcame Cameroon with a 4-3 victory in the post-match penalties, following a 1-1 aggregate score over matches in two legs.
The first leg of the qualifier, which took place last week, saw Kenya facing a 1-0 deficit against Cameroon. However, the Harambee Starlets were not to be written off. Cynthia Shilwatso became the hero of the hour with her second-half goal, leveling the aggregate score and reigniting Kenya’s hopes of progressing in the competition.
With the aggregate score tied at 1-1, there was no room for error as the match proceeded directly to the nerve-wracking penalty shootout. In this high-stakes showdown, Kenya showcased nerves of steel, emerging as 4-3 winners.
Coach Beldine Odemba’s team displayed remarkable resilience and teamwork, securing their place in the next round of the competition. The next challenge for Harambee Starlets will be Botswana, who advanced after defeating Gabon with an impressive 7-1 aggregate score.
Botswana had set the tone for their advancement with a convincing 4-1 away victory over Gabon last Friday. Their dominance was further affirmed with a commanding 3-0 home win, securing their place in the second round and setting up an exciting clash with Kenya.
Reflecting on the all important victory over Cameroon, Coach Beldine Odemba expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance. “We were not intending to lose again at home and played according to plan. We are capable of getting more goals, but we thank God for the one goal. We made tactical changes in the second half, and it worked because we played as a team.
A tough assignment awaits, and work begins immediately,” said Odemba.
The jubilant Harambee Starlets were also keen to share their excitement with their fans.
Goalkeeper Aneddy Kundu, who played a pivotal role in the penalty shootout by saving one penalty, commented, “We knew we wouldn’t disappoint our fans who had come out to support us. We had a meeting among ourselves (as players) without the team officials and planned to outshine our opponents at home, and that is what we have done. We are now shifting our focus to the next game.”
With Kenya’s Harambee Starlets displaying such determination and unity on the field, Kenyan football fans can look forward to more thrilling matches in the upcoming rounds of the WAFCON qualifiers.
The country stands united in celebrating their victory over Cameroon and eagerly anticipates the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
