Nairobi: Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 38-player provisional squad for the upcoming two-legged 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Gambia, announced by the Football Kenya Federation. The Starlets will begin their campaign at home in Nairobi, with the first leg set for October 24, 2025, at 6:00 pm at the Nyayo National Stadium. They will then travel to Senegal for the return leg, which will be played on October 28, 2025, at Stade Lat Dior in Thi¨s.
According to Kenya News Agency, the squad reported to training camp this week as preparations intensify for the decisive fixtures. Kenya is aiming to make a return to the Women's Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since their debut appearance in 2016. The provisional list features several new names as the coach looks to strengthen key areas of the team ahead of the crucial tie. Among the goalkeeping additions is Vihiga Queens shot-stopper Mercy Akoth, who earns her first call-up.
The defense will also see new energy with the inclusion of Dorcas Neema (Kibera Soccer Women), Lavyne Ochola (Kayole Starlet), Kikky Masika (Zetech Sparks), and Lorine Ilavonga, who steps up from the Rising Starlets, Kenya's U20 women's national team. In midfield, coach Odemba has called up U20 graduate Elizabeth Muteshi. Keziah Ngairah also makes her comeback to the Starlets setup, adding experience and depth to the squad.
The attack has been boosted with the inclusion of Shirleen Opisa and Charity Midewa, Rising Starlets' graduates, and Nicoline Hawa Muteshi, the 2024/25 FKF Women Division One top scorer from Iron Ladies FC, who earns her maiden senior call-up. The provisional squad includes players from various clubs and countries, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the selected athletes.