Harambee Starlets Down India to Set Up Australia Clash in FIFA Series

Harambee Starlets were off to a great start in their FIFA Series campaign, silencing India in a match played at the Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, April 11.

Going into the match, Harambee Starlets had played against Benin and the Ivory Coast in friendly matches in their build-up to the Africa Cup of Nations, which was postponed.

Harambee Starlets lost 2-0 to Benin before a 1-0 defeat to the Ivorians at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpe Olympic Stadium in Abidjan.

The match got off to a high-intensity start, with Harambee Starlets taking an early lead in just the second minute after Martha Amunyolete reacted quickest to a rebound and found the back of the net.

Buoyed by the early goal, Harambee Starlets maintained an impressive attacking display, dominating possession and creating several promising chances, but struggled to convert clear opportunities to extend their lead.

In the 19th minute, Harambee Starlets faced a setback after Ruth Ingosi went down with a head injury, forcing Beldine Odemba to make changes, as Norah Ann took her place.

They continued to pile pressure on their opponents with consistent forward play, yet costly lapses in front of goal denied them a comfortable advantage.

As the game progressed, India gradually grew into the match and began to find their rhythm, but the Starlets’ solid and well-organised defence held firm, denying them any meaningful breakthrough up to the 34th minute.

The second half saw Harambee Starlets resume on the front foot, maintaining their attacking intent and creating a number of promising chances, although they initially struggled to convert them into goals.

During this spell, India began to settle into the game, showing more composure in possession and pushing forward with intent as they looked to challenge a well-organised Kenyan side.

Despite the growing pressure, Harambee Starlets remained alert and disciplined, cutting out threats before they could fully develop. Their persistence soon paid off as they doubled their lead, with Terry Engesha finding the back of the net with a well-taken strike.

The match continued with the same high intensity, as India pushed forward in search of a breakthrough, but Harambee Starlets remained alert and well-organised at the back.

Despite India's renewed efforts and tactical changes, Haambee Starlets kept them under control, closing down spaces and limiting any clear scoring opportunities.

Kenya also looked dangerous on the counterattack, maintaining pressure and managing the game effectively as time wore on. Harambee Starlets sharpness paid off as they comfortably saw out the match to secure a 2-0 victory.

Earlier in the day, Australia defeated Malawi 5-0 to begin the FIFA Series 2026 on a high note. Emily van Egmond and Sam Kerr were on the scoresheet in the first half before Alex Chidiac, Holly McNamara and Leticia McKenna, debuting, made it five.