The Harambee Starlets delivered a commanding performance in the CECAFA Senior Women Championship, showcasing their prowess against regional rivals in a display marked by tactical discipline, flair, and team cohesion. The Kenyan team, guided by coach Beldine Odemba, made their intentions clear early in the match, asserting dominance across all areas of the pitch.
Odemba’s strategic rotation of the squad proved effective. She introduced four changes to her starting lineup, with goalkeeper Lilian Awuor stepping in for Annedy Kundu. Left-back Enez Mango, midfielder Lavender Akinyi, and winger Fasila Adhiambo also earned places in the starting eleven, adding both freshness and tactical flexibility to the side.
From the opening whistle, Kenya maintained a high tempo, pinning their opponents back with relentless pressing and rapid wing play. Diana Wacera anchored the midfield superbly, dictating the rhythm and flow of the game. Her vision and ability to split defences with precise passing created multiple openings, one of which led to Kenya’s third goal. A clever pass from Wacera found Violet Nanjala in stride, and the winger coolly chipped the ball past the advancing Ugandan goalkeeper to extend the lead in the 28th minute.
Earlier, Dorcas Shikobe had opened the scoring with a well-taken finish, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. Wacera then doubled the advantage, converting a rebound to put Kenya firmly in control. With a 3-0 lead at halftime, the match was effectively decided, allowing the Starlets to control proceedings with authority in the second half.
Defensively, the Kenyan backline remained resolute throughout the match. Skipper Dorcas Shikobe led by example, marshalling the defence alongside Enez Mango and Ruth Ingotsi. Uganda found it difficult to create clear chances, constantly frustrated by the Starlets’ compact and disciplined defensive structure.
Despite Kenya easing off the intensity after the break, they continued to manage the game effectively. With just eight minutes to go, substitute Martha Amunyolet added a final flourish to an already dominant display. Rising highest inside the box, she nodded home a pinpoint cross from Shikobe, sealing a 4-0 win and underlining Kenya’s attacking depth and defensive solidity.
With this resounding victory, the Harambee Starlets send a strong message to their rivals. They now turn their attention to the upcoming fixture against South Sudan on Thursday, June 19, followed by a potentially decisive match against hosts Tanzania. The team’s current form, bolstered by confident individual performances and tactical sharpness, sets them up as strong contenders for the regional title.
