Under the guidance of coach Beldine Odemba, the Starlets confirmed qualification on Tuesday evening with a hard-fought 1–0 victory away in Senegal, thanks to Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam’s decisive strike.
Kenya’s women’s football team — the Harambee Starlets — have sealed a glorious return to the continental stage after booking their place at the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding aggregate win over The Gambia.
Under the guidance of coach Beldine Odemba, the Starlets confirmed qualification on Tuesday evening with a hard-fought 1–0 victory away in Senegal, thanks to Mwanahalima “Dogo” Adam’s decisive strike. Combined with their 3–1 triumph in the first leg at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium, Kenya wrapped up the tie 4–1 on aggregate, leaving no doubt about their resurgence in African women’s football.
In the home fixture, goals from Mwanahalima Adam, Fasila Adhiambo, and Shirleen Opisa gave Kenya a comfortable lead and the confidence to finish the job in the return leg.
The qualification marks a historic comeback for the Starlets, who last graced the continental tournament nine years ago, during their debut at the 2016 edition in Cameroon.
Their journey to Morocco 2026 has been one of resilience and belief. Before dispatching Gambia, the Starlets edged out a spirited Tunisian side in the previous round, earning a vital 1–0 away win after a draw in Nairobi — a feat highlighted by goalkeeper Lilian Awuor’s heroics, saving two penalties to keep Kenya’s dream alive.
Now, with qualification secured, the Harambee Starlets will march to Morocco in 2026 — determined, united, and ready to script a new chapter in Kenya’s women’s football story.