Harambee Starlets Held to Gritty Draw Away in Algeria as WAFCON Prep Continues

Kenya's Harambee Starlets showed significant improvement in their second friendly match against Algeria by securing a 1-1 draw on Sunday evening in Blida.

The result concludes their two-game tour as they ramp up preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The match started with an unusual twist as Algeria was forced to substitute their goalkeeper just two minutes after kickoff.

Kenya quickly found their rhythm with Martha Amunyolete sending an early warning shot from a free-kick that sailed just over the crossbar.

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Mwanalima "Dogo" Adam, a constant threat, came agonizingly close to giving Kenya the lead after a well-constructed play, but her shot rolled just wide of the post.

The first half was a tense affair but the Starlets appeared more comfortable and composed in possession.

A booking for Madalina Airin in the 38th minute gave Algeria a dangerous set-piece opportunity, but Kenya’s defense held strong to keep the score level at halftime.

Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba made a tactical switch at the break, bringing on Sheryl Muteshi for Wambui. The substitution immediately injected pace and better organization into the Kenyan midfield, and the team's efforts were rewarded in the 65th minute.

Capitalizing on a defensive error, the ever-dangerous Dogo pounced and finished clinically to put the Starlets ahead 1-0.

Kenya continued to press, nearly doubling their lead in the 80th minute when a clever backheel from Ruth Ingosi was desperately cleared off the line by an Algerian defender. However, despite Kenya's dominance, the hosts snatched a late equalizer in the 93rd minute through Ines Belloumou, denying the Starlets a well-deserved away win.

While the last-minute goal was a bitter pill to swallow, the Harambee Starlets will take many positives from their Algerian tour.

The team's improved structure and growing confidence, coupled with Dogo's exceptional form, signal promising potential as they build towards next year's WAFCON tournament.