Coach Beldine Odemba expresses pride in Kenya following FIFA Series performance
The East African country entered the FIFA Series aiming to challenge strong opponents, securing a 2-0 victory over India in their initial match, which led to a showdown with the Matildas, who had overwhelmed Malawi 5-0 earlier.
Although they mounted a valiant effort in the decisive match, Kenya fell short as Chelsea forward Sam Kerr opened the scoring, followed by Clare Wheeler confirming the triumph.
Kenya generated plenty of opportunities yet failed to convert them. They appeared dominant from the start, but the Australian keeper, under the guidance of coach Joe Montemurro, excelled in thwarting their attacks and maintaining parity.
Kenya heads to WAFCON with boosted morale
Kenya utilised the FIFA Series as preparation for the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, which qualifies teams for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“I am pleased the players are absorbing lessons quickly,” Odemba shared with Flashscore, smiling through the loss.
“This was our first encounter with a non-African side, and we are delighted to have faced a formidable opponent, with the team delivering their utmost. We produced many openings, highlighting areas for improvement in finishing.”
Odemba continued: “Converting every opportunity into a goal is now our mantra.”
Regarding the benefits for upcoming events, she noted: “From a coaching perspective and with our staff, we trust this squad completely; we will compete strongly at WAFCON.
“The FIFA Series allowed us to assess our position, identify strengths and weaknesses, and pinpoint focus areas. I am truly proud of the players; their progress inspires confidence ahead of WAFCON.”
She wrapped up: “The entire squad impressed me, beyond just the defenders; everyone contributed as a unit, exerted maximum effort, and we now possess a cohesive team primed for WAFCON.”
‘Kenya proved a tough challenge’
Australia’s coach Joe Montemurro praised Kenya as a solid and well-structured team, noting that the Starlets provided the intense rivalry his side sought in the FIFA Series.
“Kenya is a strong outfit, highly disciplined, and we arrived to compete in this setting, to grasp African football dynamics and anticipate unexpected elements, amid enthusiastic supporters. We achieved precisely what we intended,” Montemurro stated.
He further commented: “Kenya performed exceptionally; we specifically desired a challenging rival, which justified our participation. Such matches foster our development.
“They prompt us to analyse aspects as desired. Ultimately, we squandered several opportunities, but that defines the sport, particularly at international level; readiness for any scenario is essential.”
Sam Kerr, the star attraction for fans, mentioned her pleasure in competing in Nairobi under unfamiliar harsh conditions.
“Kenyans are incredibly warm and hospitable; I look forward to connecting with them and contributing positively,” Kerr remarked.
“Playing here was thoroughly enjoyable for the team; we cherished the visit. The matches were demanding, in adverse circumstances unlike our usual environment, yet it proved a valuable encounter.”
The Harambee Starlets find themselves in Group C at WAFCON with hosts Morocco, Senegal, and Algeria, forming a fiercely contested group.
Kenya earned WAFCON qualification through a decisive two-match playoff against Gambia. The Starlets triumphed 3-1 in the opening leg and followed with a 1-0 success in the second, progressing on a 4-1 aggregate.
The 2026 tournament represents a key moment for the Harambee Starlets, marking their return to WAFCON a decade after their 2016 debut.