Inside cash prize details despite Harambee Starlets falling to Australia in FIFA Series final
Kenya’s Harambee Starlets settled for second place in the FIFA Women’s Series after falling 2-0 to Australia on April 15 at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
The defeat came after the team had opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over India earlier in the tournament on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at the same venue.
Cash rewards
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Despite their strong showing, the inaugural competition did not include any official prize money from FIFA. However, the Kenyan side still received financial rewards locally.
Following their win against India, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya fulfilled a pledge of Ksh1 million to the team, while the Football Kenya Federation added a further KSh500,000. It remains unclear whether additional bonuses will be issued after the final.
In the decisive match, Australia, widely expected to dominate due to their superior ranking and experienced squad, secured victory through goals from Sam Kerr and Clare Wheeler, scored before and after halftime. Kenya showed glimpses of quality under coach Beldine Odemba but struggled to trouble their opponents, with goalkeeper Lillian Awuor unable to contain Kerr’s effort that led to the opening goal in the opening stages of the final.
Australia had reached the final after a commanding 5-0 win over Malawi, while Kenya booked their spot by beating India. The tournament, introduced in 2024, is designed to provide national teams with competitive international fixtures against opponents from different regions.
For Harambee Starlets, the exposure was welcome as the side prepares for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in July 2026.
Encouragingly, Harambee Starlets’ performances have contributed to an improvement in their FIFA ranking, climbing from 134th to 128th as they continue preparations for the upcoming WAFCON.
Ruto’s encouragement
After the final, President William Ruto, known for rewarding national teams after performing exemplary in international matches, praised the team for their effort, urging them to build on the experience and aim higher in future competitions.
”Well done, Harambee Starlets, on finishing runners-up at the FIFA Series Women’s Tournament. You carried the nation’s hopes with pride, rising to the occasion and showcasing your talent on the global stage. Your performance throughout the tournament is a clear testament to your discipline, resilience, and growing strength as a team,” Ruto said.
”This achievement signals even greater promise ahead. Build on the lessons learned and the experience gained, and continue preparing with focus and determination for the challenges to come. I have no doubt that you will rise even higher. Hongera, Starlets!” He added.
Australia’s participation in the Nairobi tournament was influenced by limited options during the international window, as many European and South American nations were engaged in World Cup qualifiers.
