Harambee Starlets striker Mwanahalima Adam calls for fight as Kenya faces elimination threat

Harambee Starlets have a tough task ahead as they prepare to face Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles Femeni in the decisive second leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier.

After being held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at home in the first leg, the Starlets must now secure a scoring draw or an outright win in Tunis to advance to the next round.

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Despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, the Kenyan side struggled to break down Tunisia’s resilient defense.

Striker Mwanahalima Adam, who plays for Kansas City in the United States, admitted the team was unlucky not to capitalize on their chances in the first leg but remains confident ahead of the return fixture.

“We did our best but unfortunately we couldn’t get the goals that we needed so much. It was a tough game and with the chances we had, we should have done better. But we have that behind our backs, and we promise to correct and do better in the second leg. It will be tougher, but we are a tougher team as well. The focus remains qualification for the WAFCON,” Adam said after the match.

Head coach Beldine Odemba fielded a strong lineup featuring key players such as Adam and team captain Dorcas Shikobe.

However, the team was unable to break through Tunisia’s well-organized defensive setup, leaving the tie evenly poised ahead of the return match at the Stade Olympique de Sousse.

Harambee Starlets midfielder Corazone Aquino, who was instrumental in Kenya’s attacking play, nearly gave the team a crucial lead in the 40th minute.

She combined well with Adam inside Tunisia’s penalty area, but their promising move ended in disappointment as the ball rolled out of play.

Despite their defensive approach, Tunisia created a few moments of danger. Their best chance came in the second half when Samia Aouni’s powerful free-kick struck the crossbar, beating Kenyan goalkeeper Lillian Awuor but failing to find the net.

Aquino remains optimistic about the return fixture and believes the team can improve in key areas before Wednesday’s clash.

“We have seen our mistakes, and we still have time to correct them before the next match,” she added.

With a place in the final qualification round at stake, the Harambee Starlets are expected to refine their attacking strategy and make the most of their scoring chances in Tunis.

Starlets coach Beldine Odemba will likely work on tactical adjustments to ensure the team is more clinical in front of goal and better prepared for Tunisia’s counterattacks.

The decisive match is scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, at the Stade Olympique de Sousse.

Kenya’s dream of making it to the WAFCON finals remains alive, but they will need a spirited performance to overcome Tunisia away from home.