Harambee Starlets played to a goalless draw against Tunisia in the first leg of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier at Ulinzi Sports Complex on Friday.
The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to score, setting the stage for an intense return leg in Tunisia on February 26.
The Starlets had several promising attacks, generating multiple goal-scoring chances but struggled with their finishing.
With the tie still wide open, the team will now shift focus to the away fixture, where the aggregate winner will progress to the final qualification round to face either Niger or Gambia.
Janet Mumo made her debut for the Starlets, delivering an impressive performance and showing her potential on the international stage.
Head coach Beldine Odemba expressed optimism after the match, saying, “We played well and were tactical in our approach. We created several chances, especially down the wings, but couldn’t capitalize. Tunisia will be a different challenge, and we’ll review this match to assess what worked and what we need to improve for the second leg.”
Harambee Starlets squad.
Midfielder Corazon Aquino echoed the coach’s thoughts, highlighting the need for sharper finishing.
The Starlets are determined to return to the WAFCON after last appearing in the tournament in 2016.
The team is set to depart for Tunisia on Monday, February 24, for the decisive second leg.
