WAFCON 2026‎: Harambee Starlets target historic semi-final berth – Africa Top Sports

arambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 24-player squad for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to be held in Morocco from July 26 to August 16.

‎The team is scheduled to depart for an international training camp in Miramas, France, on July 15, before travelling to Morocco on July 23 for the continental tournament.

‎‎Kenya will open its Group A campaign against hosts Morocco on July 26 before facing Senegal on July 30 and Algeria on August 3.

‎Final Preparations Before Morocco

‎‎The training camp in France will mark the final phase of the team’s preparations ahead of WAFCON 2026, providing the technical bench with an opportunity to fine-tune the squad before the tournament begins.

‎The competition marks Kenya’s second appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having made its debut in 2016.

‎World Cup Qualification at Stake

‎‎Beyond the continental title, WAFCON 2026 also serves as the qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

‎‎A place in the semi-finals would secure Kenya a historic first qualification to the senior FIFA Women’s World Cup and add another milestone to the country’s growing presence on the global stage.

‎Presidential Flag-Off

‎‎Ahead of their departure, Harambee Starlets honoured an invitation to State House, where they met His Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, who officially flagged off the team ahead of the tournament.

‎The President wished the squad well as they embark on their WAFCON campaign and encouraged them to represent the country with pride.

‎‎Odemba on the Team’s Objective

‎‎ “We have had a good period of preparation, and the players understand the task ahead. WAFCON is a highly competitive tournament, but it also presents an opportunity to compete for a place at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

‎‎”Our target is to reach the semi-finals, and we will approach every match with the belief that we can achieve our objective.”

‎FINAL SQUAD

Goalkeepers; Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor, Vivian Shiyonzo.

Defenders; Leah Andiema, Elizabeth Ochaka, Ruth Ingosi, Vivian Nasaka, Enez Mango, Euphrasier Shilwatso, Norah Ann, Mary Nthambi.

Midfielders; Mwanalima Adam, Martha Amunyolete, Tereza Engesha, Fasila Adhiambo, Lorna Nyarinda, Mercy Airo, Airin Madalina, Shaline Nambengele.

Forwards; Shirleen Opisa, Eglay Mukhwana, Marion Serenge, Violet Nanjala, Valerie Nekesa.