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The team is currently in camp, with 21 players already reporting for duty. Five more are en route, while ten additional players will join once the FIFA window opens.
Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba addressed the media following the team’s first training session at the Kasarani Annex on Monday, sharing her thoughts on the upcoming two-leg clash with Tunisia. With the first leg scheduled for Friday, February 21, 2025, at home, and the return fixture set for Tuesday, February 25, 2025, in Tunis, Odemba outlined her plans for the squad and highlighted the importance of both experience and fresh talent.
The team is currently in camp, with 21 players already reporting for duty. Five more are en route, while ten additional players will join once the FIFA window opens. Odemba expressed excitement over the inclusion of 11 new faces in the squad, players she has been following closely throughout the league season. “These are playmakers, goal scorers and key performers at the club level, and they bring exactly the kind of energy we need to strengthen the team,” Odemba explained.
One of the standout additions is Faith Mboya of Kibera Soccer Women. Mboya has been in scintillating form, scoring 15 goals in the first leg of the National Super League for Subderland Samba before her move to Kibera few weeks ago, where she has continued her impressive run with seven goals in just two matches. “She is a fighter in front of goal, a true scorer. Those are the qualities we need to challenge our current strikers and push the team to greater heights,” said Odemba, singling out Mboya as one to watch.
In addition to the experienced players, Odemba emphasized the significance of incorporating younger talent into the camp. “We are building a conveyor belt of players, ensuring that we continue to develop the next generation of footballers,” she said. Among the new young talents is Elizabeth Ochaka, the Junior Starlets captain, who has represented Kenya at the U17 World Cup and is currently excelling at the club level. “Elizabeth has the experience of playing at the highest level, and I am confident she will push her teammates to perform better,” Odemba added.
Looking ahead to the Tunisia match up, Odemba stated that her primary focus would be on attacking play. “We need to score and be more aggressive in attack,” she emphasized. “We are playing at home first, and it’s important we make a strong statement. We need to capitalize on our chances and make sure we are clinical in front of goal.” She also stressed the importance of maintaining a solid defense. “While we aim to score, we must also ensure that we don’t concede at home.”
Odemba also took the opportunity to speak to the players who have earned their first call-ups. “I’ve reminded them that football is about effort, and the reason they are here is because of their hard work and performances with their clubs. They have what it takes to succeed and shouldn’t panic. It’s a learning process, but within a few days, they will settle in and give their best," she said.
As the Starlets prepare for a challenging encounter against a Tunisia side ranked significantly higher, Odemba remains optimistic. “Tunisia is ranked 51st, and they are a tough opponent. However, we know that if we play to our strengths and remain focused, we can give them a run for their money,” Odemba concluded.