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WAFCON: Harambee Starlets trio upbeat ahead of crucial test against Senegal
30th July, 2026 12:56 PM
Midfielder Shirleen Opisa, defender Euphrasier Shilwatso and forward Violet Nanjala are eager to inspire Kenya’s Harambee Starlets past Senegal in Group A of the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 in Morocco on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
Making their second appearance at the tournament after ten years in the cold, Beldine Odemba’s girls endured a humiliating 4-0 beating at the hands of unforgiving Morocco in their opening match on Sunday, July 26, 2026, in Rabat. Starlets had goalkeeper Lilian Awuor to thank for a series of saves between the sticks, as the damage by the hosts could have been worse.
Speaking to K24 Sports ahead of the Senegal test, Opisa expressed confidence as the Starlets seek to bounce back against the West African giants.
“As a team, we are very ready; losing our previous match does not mean we have put our heads down. We are still determined that we are going to take the three points. We also believe that through the preparations we have had for the last three days, everyone is determined and focused,” Opisa said.
On her part, Shilwatso echoed Opisa’s sentiments, saying: “We picked a lot of lessons from Morocco’s match; they know football and had a target heading into the tournament. If Senegal are physical, we are also strong; we have been training hard. We know we are going for a win. To our fans back home, we have a goal, which is reaching the semifinal and qualifying for the World Cup. So, let them support us because we know we are going to make it,” She said.
Correcting mistakes
On the missed chances against Morocco in the opener, forward Violet Nanjala admitted that the striking force went back to the drawing board to re-sharpen their edge, insisting that the team will be facing Senegal while seeking to avoid previous mistakes.
“We are back to the pitch to correct the mistakes we committed. Everyone knows where we went wrong. We are going to give it all against Senegal because it will determine our progression at the tournament. It is a must-win game, and everyone is aware that we are wading through murky waters. So it is upon the players to react; the coaching department has played its role. We want to make our fans happy, as well as the coaches. There is pressure, but we will manage,” she added.
Thursday’s encounter will be vital for both sides as they seek to bag maximum points for survival. Senegal also lost 2-0 to Algeria in another Group A fixture of the WAFCON 2026.
