Sports

Odemba parades strong Harambee Starlets starting XI for Australia final in FIFA Series

Joel Masibo 15th April, 2026 05:35 PM

Harambee Starlets players celebrating their first goal against India in the FIFA Series meeting at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, April 11, 2026. PHOTO/https://web.facebook.com/williamsamoei

The Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has unveiled their starting lineup ahead of a highly anticipated final against Australia women’s national football team in the ongoing FIFA Series 2026, at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi, starting at 5:30 local time.

The match presents a crucial test for Kenya’s women’s national team as they continue to build momentum and gain exposure against top-tier opposition on the global stage.

Starting XI

Leading the squad between the posts will be goalkeeper Lillian Awuor, who is expected to provide stability at the back. The defensive line features Vivian Nasaka, Leah Andiema, Norah Ann, and Elizabeth Ochaka, forming a solid unit tasked with containing Australia’s attacking threat.

Harambee Starlets Martha Amunyolet wheels away after scoring against India./https://www.facebook.com/HarambeeStarlets

Captain Mwanalima Adam will anchor the midfield, bringing leadership and composure, alongside Shalyne Opisa and Martha Amunyolete. The trio will be key in controlling possession and linking play between defense and attack.

Upfront, Tereza Engesha will spearhead the attack, supported by Airin Madalina and Fasila Adhiambo, as the Starlets look to break down a formidable Australian defense.

Reserves

On the bench, the technical bench has named a mix of experience and emerging talent, including Elizabeth Mideva, Shaline Nambengele, Lorna Nyarinda, Marion Serenge, Janet Mumo, Vidah Akeyo, Eglay Mukhwana, goalkeeper Annedy Kundu, Mercy Airo, Euphraiser Shilwatso, Enez Mango, and Valerie Nekesa.

The fixture is part of FIFA’s initiative to provide more competitive international matches for women’s teams, offering the Starlets a valuable platform to test their squad depth and tactical approach against one of the world’s leading sides.

Part of the action of the FIFA Women’s series between India vs Malawi. PHOTO/https://web.facebook.com/FootballKenyaFederation

With a balanced lineup and determined squad, Kenya will be aiming to make a strong statement in this international showdown. Kenya book the final spot after beating India 2-0 in their first match played at the same venue on Saturday, April 11, 2026, while the Matildas of Australia edged Malawi 5-0 to book a date with Harambee Starlets.

On Wednesday, India beat Malawi 3-2 in the third-place play-off played at Nyayo Stadium earlier before the final.