Harambee Starlets players celebrate during their match vs Uganda. (Photo Courtesy: FKF Media)

Odemba has opted for a balanced mix of experience and fresh talent as Starlets prepare for crucial WAFCON qualifier.

Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 38-player provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) two-legged qualifier against the Gambia.

The first leg is scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025, at 6:00 pm at the Nyayo National Stadium. Four days later, on Tuesday, October 28, the Starlets will be on the road in Senegal, where they face Gambia at Stade Lat Dior in Thiès. 

Odemba has opted for both continuity and fresh energy in her selections, blending experienced internationals with exciting young talent. 

“We are building a team that can compete now but also secure the future of Kenyan women’s football,” said Odemba in a recent interview.

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Among the headline inclusions is Vihiga Queens goalkeeper Mercy Akoth, who earns her first senior call-up. 

Akoth’s performances in the domestic league have been widely praised, and her selection reflects Odemba’s intent to strengthen the goalkeeping department. 

In defense, the team will see reinforcements with Dorcas Neema (Kibera Soccer Women), Lavyne Ochola (Kayole Starlet), and Kikky Masika (Zetech Sparks). Rising Starlets graduate Lorine Ilavonga also steps into the senior fold, continuing the recent tradition of transitioning youth prospects into the main squad.

The midfield area, often considered Kenya’s engine room, will also feature fresh faces. U20 graduate Elizabeth Muteshi has earned her first senior nod after impressing with her composure and passing range in youth competitions. 

She will be joined by Keziah Ngairah, who makes a timely return to the Starlets setup. Ngairah’s inclusion brings a mix of creativity and defensive cover, qualities that Odemba sees as crucial against a disciplined Gambian side.

The attacking unit, meanwhile, has received a major boost. Striker Nicoline Hawa Muteshi, the 2024/25 FKF Women Division One top scorer with Iron Ladies FC, has been handed her maiden call-up. 

She will be supported by fellow Rising Starlets graduates Shirleen Opisa and Charity Midewa, who are expected to add flair and pace in the final third. The trio’s inclusion is widely viewed as an investment in Kenya’s future attacking power.

The Starlets will report to camp on Sunday, October 5, 2025, as preparations intensify for the crucial fixtures.

 Technical drills, tactical sessions, and warm-up friendlies are expected to sharpen the squad’s readiness before the double-header. 

Kenya’s women’s team last qualified for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2016, making history with their debut appearance.

 Since then, qualification has remained elusive, but with the expanded talent pool and Odemba’s emphasis on youth integration, optimism is running high.

 A successful outing against Gambia would bring the Starlets within touching distance of reclaiming their place among Africa’s elite.

Goalkeepers

Annedy Kundu (Kenya Police Bullets), Vivian Shiyonzo (Kibera Girls Soccer), Lilian Awuor (Farul Constanta, Turkey), Mercy Akoth (Vihiga Queens)

Defenders

Lorine Ilavonga (Ulinzi Starlets), Ruth Ingosi (Simba Queens), Dorcas Neema (Kibera Soccer Women), Tabitha Amoit (Ulinzi Starlets), Dorcas Shikobe (Sirens of Grevena, Greece), Norah Ann (Kenya Police Bullets), Enez Mango (Farul Constanta, Turkey), Leah Andiema (Kenya Police Bullets), Lavyne Ochola (Kayole Starlet), Janet Mumo (Kibera Soccer Women), Vivian Nasaka (Hakkarigucuspor), Kikky Masika (Zetech Sparks),

Midfielders

Lydia Akoth (Yanga Princess), Medina Abubakar (Kenya Police Bullets), Corazone Aquino (Simba Queens), Diana Wacera (Kenya Police Bullets),  Sheryl Angach (Ulinzi Starlets), Martha Amnyolet (Vihiga Queens), Elizabeth Muteshi (Trinity Starlets), Beverlyn Adika (Zetech Sparks), Keziah Ngaira (Ulinzi Starlets), Lavender Ann (Ulinzi Starlets), Fasila Adhiambo (Ulinzi Starlets)

Forwards

Mwanalima Adam (HB Koge, Denmark), Charity Midewa (PalmHill Sports Club, Egypt), Diana Cherono (Vihiga Queens), Tereza Engesha (Wuhan Giangda, China), Faith Mboya (Kibera Soccer Women), Catherine Khaemba (Bungoma Queens), Tumaini Waliaula (Sirens of Grevena), Violet Nanjala (United Eagles FC, Saudi Arabia), Elizabeth Wambui (Simba Queens), Shirleen Opisa (Amus College, Uganda) Nicoline Hawi Muteshi (Iron Ladies FC)