Predicted Harambee Starlets line up against Botswana

FOOTBALL Predicted Harambee Starlets line up against Botswana

Festus Chuma 07:30 - 29.11.2023

Probable line-up for Kenya in the WAFCON qualifier includes solid defense, strong midfield, and attacking options, aiming for victory.

Harambee Starlets will on Wednesday host Botswana in the first leg of the final round of the 2024 African Women's Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.

In their remarkable journey to this final round, Kenya displayed unwavering resilience as they defeated the formidable Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon 4-3 on penalties at the Nyayo National Stadium on September 26.

This triumph came after a nail-biting 1-1 aggregate score following the conclusion of the two legs.

 On the other side, Botswana's Mares have shown their prowess by securing their spot in the second round with an impressive 7-1 aggregate victory over Gabon.

The stakes are incredibly high in this clash, as the winner of this two-leg affair will secure a direct ticket to the WAFCON finals, set to be held in Morocco.

These two teams have history, having met twice before, with their last encounter taking place in 2015 during the 2016 Olympic qualifying tournament.

 Kenya faced a tough challenge in that round, losing 2-1 away to Botswana in the first leg but bouncing back with a 1-0 victory at home in the second leg. 

The triumph came in favor of away goals, with an aggregate score of 2-2, propelling Kenya to the next round.

As per the latest FIFA rankings, Kenya stands at position 147, while Botswana is ranked at position 149.

In terms of the probable line-up for Harambee Starlets, Annedy Kundu is expected to keep her place in between the sticks, providing the last line of defense.

Ruth Ingosi is likely to start at right-back, bringing her defensive prowess to the team. 

Enez Mango could occupy the left-back position, while Vivian Nasaka and Phoebe Owiti are expected to form a solid partnership at center-back.

In the midfield, Fasila Odhiambo is a strong contender to start alongside Lorna Nyarinda and Corazone Aquino. 

Their midfield chemistry will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game. 

On the flanks, Cynthia Shilwatso and Mwanahalima Adam could be handed starts, with the responsibility of stretching the Botswana defense. Deployed in the Teresa Engesha hole, their creativity and pace will be vital for generating scoring opportunities.

Upfront, Marjolene Nekesa is the likely candidate to start in place of Esse Akida. Her ability to find the back of the net will be instrumental in Harambee Starlets' quest for victory.

Here’s Kenya's probable line-up against Botswana

Annedy Kundu, Enez Mango, Mwanahalima Adam, Phoebe Awiti, Vivian Nasaka,Ruth Ingosi, Sherly Angachi, Teressa Engesha, Vivian Corazone, Vivian Nasaka, Marjolene Nekesa 

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