After briefly considering withdrawing from the competition, Kenya has decided to press ahead with its campaign in the qualifiers for the women’s football tournament at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The Harambee Starlets have returned to training, refocusing their efforts as they prepare for a crucial fourth-round showdown against Zambia.
The decision to continue comes as a relief for players and supporters alike, as Kenya remains determined to keep its Olympic dream alive. Despite earlier uncertainties surrounding participation, the team has regrouped and resumed preparations with renewed motivation. Training sessions have intensified as the coaching staff works to fine-tune tactics, build cohesion, and ensure the squad is physically ready for what promises to be a demanding two-legged tie.
Kenya will host the first leg on November 8 in Nairobi, hoping to capitalize on home advantage and secure a positive result in front of their supporters. The return leg is scheduled for November 11 in Lusaka, where Zambia will aim to overturn any deficit on their own soil. With the matches taking place just days apart, squad depth and fitness will be key factors in determining the outcome.
The stakes are high, as the winner of the tie will move one step closer to securing a place at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast and Cameroon are battling for the other ticket to the final qualifying round, underscoring the fierce competition among African nations for limited Olympic spots.
To tackle the challenge, Kenya has assembled a balanced squad combining experienced players and promising young talent drawn from several domestic clubs. In goal, the Starlets will rely on Annete Kundu (Eldoret Falcons), Judith Osimbo (Gaspo Women), Wilfrida Seda (Vihiga Queens), and Monica Odato (Wadadia), providing solid options between the posts.
The defensive unit includes Vivian Nasaka (Vihiga Queens), Dorcas Shikobe (Oserian Ladies), Lydia Akoth (Thika Queens), Lucy Akoth (Mathare United Women), Ruth Ingosi (Eldoret Falcons), Wincate Kaari (Gaspo Women), Nelly Sawe (Thika Queens), Dorcas Shiveka (Eldoret Falcons), and Sylvia Lumasia (Kibera Girls Soccer Academy). This group will be tasked with maintaining organization and resilience against Zambia’s attack.
In midfield, Kenya counts on Jentrix Shikangwa (Wiyeta Girls), Cynthia Shilwatso (Vihiga Queens), Sheril Angachi (Gaspo Women), Corazone Aquino (Gaspo Women), Mwanalima Adam (Thika Queens), Elizabeth Wambui (Gaspo Women), and Providence Kasiala (Wiyeta Girls). Their role will be crucial in controlling possession, dictating tempo, and supporting both defense and attack.
Up front, the offensive responsibilities fall to Topistar Situma (Vihiga Queens), Bertha Omita (Kisumu All Starlets), Mercy Airo (Kisumu All Starlets), and Janet Bundi (Eldoret Falcons), who will look to convert chances and provide the goals needed to keep Kenya’s Olympic hopes alive.
With preparations back on track and the squad fully focused, the Harambee Starlets are determined to overcome past uncertainties and fight for qualification. The upcoming matches against Zambia represent not only a sporting challenge but also an opportunity to reaffirm Kenya’s commitment to women’s football on the continental stage.
