FIFA Series: Beldine Odemba says Kenya ready to show Australia 'what we are made of’

Harambee Starlets advanced to face the Matildas, formerly called the Female Socceroos, following a 2-0 win over India. Australia claimed a 5-0 triumph against Malawi.

Emily Van Egmond, Sam Kerr, Alex Chidiac, Holly McNamara, and Leticia McKenna scored in that commanding performance in Nairobi. Kenya holds recognition across Africa, but Australia boasts three OFC titles, one AFC crown, and one AFF victory.

The side has appeared at the FIFA Women’s World Cup eight times, including as co-host in 2023, and at the Olympics five times, yet without claiming either competition.

Regardless of their achievements, Odemba remains unfazed about facing Australia, asserting that her side possesses the capability to spring a surprise.

‘It will be good moment for Starlets’

“It’s a big game, I agree, but I wouldn’t say it is the toughest because I have never played against them,” Odemba shared with Flashscore before the match.

“We are set to encounter them (Australia) for the initial time, we have trained specifically for this matchup, and we are pleased to take on a formidable rival.

“I have mentioned before that to become a major force, you need to compete against major teams, so we welcome this opportunity.

“It will offer valuable lessons, a positive experience for our players, a significant occasion for the nation, and for me as head coach to test against a top-tier team with eight World Cup appearances.”

Odemba continued: “Yet we are progressing towards that level, making this an excellent challenge.”

Regarding injury issues for Kenya, Odemba noted: “Yes, one or possibly two players may sit out. As everyone knows, Ruth (Ingosi) suffered an injury requiring stitches, so she will miss two weeks and thus not be selectable.

“We are keeping watch on Valerie (Nekesa), who took a knock on the thigh (versus India), nothing severe, but we cannot guarantee her fitness for the squad.”

Odemba wrapped up by saying: “The players realise they are up against prominent figures; they also grasp that the opposition surpasses us in quality, operates tactically, and to counter a tactical outfit, we must prepare tactically and execute a tactical strategy. We have addressed every element.

“Facing such opponents is beneficial since we are gearing up for these encounters. Our aim is to reach that standard, and we cannot achieve it without playing superior teams or those ranked higher than us.

“This match serves as an ideal evaluation for us, whether we secure victory, achieve a draw, or avoid defeat, which we are not considering presently as it does not fit our mindset right now, it represents a major learning and advancement for women’s football.

“Therefore, experiencing a clash with globally acknowledged powerhouses is valuable. We require instances like this to demonstrate our true potential.”

‘Australia a team like any other’

Kenya’s captain Mwanalima Adam stated: “Australia is just another team, this is merely another match, the key is our mindset towards it, we have faith in our abilities.

“It will prove an enriching encounter against a squad with seasoned athletes.”

Harambee Starlets’ defender Elizabeth Ochaka commented on marking Chelsea forward Sam Kerr: “For me, I hold no fear towards her. She stands on two feet, same as I do.

“This presents a superb chance to test against these prominent players, even as we gear up for WAFCON, where we will face elite, skilled opponents.”

Prior to Kenya’s clash with Australia, Malawi faces India in the third-place match. The Scorchers seek to end the event positively after their substantial loss to Australia.

“We are gearing up thoroughly for the encounter with India. Issues from our initial match against Australia have been addressed, the squad comprehends the importance of this fixture. We anticipate success, and all are prepared,” remarked Malawi’s coach Lovemore Fazili.

He further noted: “In terms of tactics and technique, India functions cohesively as a group. They employed a 4-4-2 setup, pressing as one. We have trained accordingly, and our strategy will be constructive.”

The FIFA Series forms part of Kenya’s buildup to the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which qualifies teams for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.