Starlets in training before the Morocco match/HANDOUTHarambee Starlets will be seeking a swift response when they face Senegal on Thursday after suffering a 4-0 defeat to hosts Morocco in their opening Group A match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Sunday night.
Coach Beldine Odemba’s side now faces a must-win encounter against Senegal to keep their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive before rounding off the group stage against Algeria on August 3.
The Starlets’ scoreline did not fully reflect their bright start, with Tereza “Terry” Engesha coming within inches of giving Kenya an early lead when her powerful strike rattled the crossbar in the fifth minute.
Valerie Nekesa also created a promising chance, but Eglay Mukhwana was unable to convert. Morocco, however, punished Kenya’s missed opportunities with a ruthless attacking display.
Meriem Atiq broke the deadlock in the 19th minute before Sakina Ouzraoui doubled the lead nine minutes later. Ibtissam Jraidi struck before the break and added her second two minutes into the second half to complete a convincing victory for the hosts.
Odemba attempted to change the game’s complexion after halftime by introducing Mercy Airo, Shirlene Opisa, Euphrasier Shilwatso and Airin Madalina.
Although Kenya showed greater urgency, they were unable to breach Morocco’s organised defence.
The hosts, coached by 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning tactician Jorge Vilda, comfortably managed the game to secure all three points and move to the top of Group A on goal difference ahead of Algeria, who defeated Senegal 2-0.
The defeat leaves Kenya with no margin for error in their remaining group fixtures. Despite the disappointing start, the Starlets can draw encouragement from the attacking intent they showed early in the match and the improvements after the break.
Odemba had built her squad around a blend of experienced players and exciting youngsters, several of whom featured at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and will be hoping they respond positively under pressure.
Victory against Senegal would revive Kenya’s chances of progressing to the knockout stage. At the same time, another defeat would leave the Starlets needing other results to go their way before their final group match against Algeria.
