'We've closed our ears' - Harambee Stars boss Beldine Odemba unfazed over future following Tunisia win

'We've closed our ears' - Harambee Stars boss Beldine Odemba unfazed over future following Tunisia win

Mark Kinyanjui 09:00 - 28.02.2025

Harambee Starslets coach Beldine Odemba has expressed confidence she will hang on to her job after overseeing a win over Tunisia away from home to ease the pressure off her shoulders.

Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba remains confident about her future after leading the team to a 1-0 victory over Tunisia in the first round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers on Tuesday

.Needing a win to progress to the second round of qualifiers after a goalless draw in Nairobi, the Starlets arrived in Sousse, Tunisia, determined to defy the odds.

Tereza Engesha struck in the third minute, and goalkeeper Lilian Awuor produced two stunning penalty saves, securing Kenya's first-ever competitive away win against North African opposition. 

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Despite the Police FC coach and her technical bench facing sharp criticism after a frustrating draw at Ulinzi Complex five days earlier, the team showed resilience and determination.

Reports had emerged that former Vihiga Queens coach Alex Almirah was set to take over as the new Harambee Stars head coach. 

However, Odemba claimed that FKF president Hussein Mohammed assured her and the team of the federation’s full support. "We had a meeting before we travelled, and he reassured us of his support," Odemba said.

Sending a bullish message to critics, Odemba revealed that her charges are not listening to any backlash. "Whatever is being spoken outside the walls, we have closed our ears. We are concentrating on the team and preparations toward making sure we qualify."

 She emphasized the significance of the win, stating, "We did not win to silence anyone. We won for our own glory, to show that something is happening in women's football in this country, because we had the support, and because we were ready to win this first round." 

Odemba highlighted the importance of focusing on the upcoming rounds to qualify for the 2026 WAFCON, underlining the win's importance for her career and for all football lovers in the country.

Starlets will be resuming WAFCON qualifying action next October when they face The Gambia.

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