Harambee Starlets fell short in the 2025 CECAFA Women’s Championship final, succumbing to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Tanzania at the Azam Complex Stadium. Despite an impressive unbeaten run to the final, Beldine Odemba’s side struggled to cope with Tanzania’s intensity and home advantage. Here’s a look at how each player fared during the final.
Goalkeeper
Lillian Awuor – 6
Awuor made several important saves to keep Kenya in the match, but was unfortunately credited with an own goal after a low cross deflected off her during a desperate dive. Nonetheless, her command and communication from the back were solid throughout.
Defenders
Ruth Ingosi – 7
One of Kenya’s standout performers, Ingosi was dominant in the air and fierce in her tackles. She remained composed despite the pressure and cleared her lines effectively, often bailing her team out during chaotic moments.
Dorcas Shikobe – 7
The captain led by example with a gritty performance. She marshaled the defence well and made numerous timely interceptions and clearances. The goal conceded was more a team lapse than an individual error.
Enez Mango – 6
Relatively quiet at left back but steady. Tanzania rarely attacked her flank, allowing her to focus on maintaining defensive shape rather than last-ditch tackles.
Vivian Nasaka – 3
Struggled throughout the match, often outpaced and outmuscled by Opa Clement. Her marking and positioning were poor in the build-up to the goal, where she was turned too easily by Clara Luvanga.
Midfielders
Martha Amunyolet – 5
Found herself overwhelmed in the holding midfield role, unable to dictate play or offer consistent protection to the backline. She was pressed out of the game too often by Tanzania’s energetic midfielders.
Lavender Ann Akinyi – 4
Had minimal influence and struggled to get into the game. She lacked the bite needed to control central areas and was often bypassed.
Diana Wacera – 5
More composed than her midfield partners. She circulated possession well but was overly cautious, rarely attempting to drive the ball forward.
Forwards
Fasila Adhiambo – 4
Showed occasional skill but was too careless in possession. Her giveaways hurt Kenya on the break, and she struggled to link up effectively with the rest of the attack.
Violet Nanjala – 3
A shadow of her semi-final self. Isolated on the right, she failed to impact the match either offensively or defensively and had minimal service.
Tumaini Waliaula – 4
Worked hard but was let down by her first touch and movement. She had a few chances but failed to capitalize on any.
Substitutes
Emily Morang’a – 5
Added pressing and energy but didn’t have a clear sight at goal.
Faith Mboya – 5
Tried to maintain possession but lacked final product.
Medina Abubakar – N/A
Too little time to make a difference.
