Harambee Starlets delivered a commanding performance to defeat India 2-0 at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, securing a spot in the final of the inaugural FIFA Series 2026 Women’s International Friendlies.
The victory sets up an exciting clash against Australia on Wednesday, with the third-place play-off scheduled for 2: 00 pm EAT followed by the final at 5:30 pm EAT.
The Starlets’ impressive performance underscores Kenya’s growing stature in women’s football and sets up a highly anticipated final against the Matildas.
Goals from Martha Amunyolete and Tereza Engesha highlighted the Starlets’ dominance, as head coach Beldine Odemba guided her team to a memorable home triumph.
Fasila Adhiambo’s teasing cross from the left was parried by India’s goalkeeper Shreya Hooda, but Amunyolete reacted swiftly to fire the rebound into the net.
The early strike set the tone for a dominant first half, with the Starlets controlling possession and dictating play.
A tense moment arose in the 19th minute when Ingosi collided with India captain Pyari Xaxa, forcing substitutions for both teams. Norah Ann replaced Ingosi, while Kaviya Pakkirisamy came on for Xaxa.
India struggled to cope with Kenya’s high pressing and midfield control, led by Amunyolete and Mwanahalima Adam. Kenya’s defence, marshalled by Ruth Ingosi, held firm against India’s attempts to respond.
The second half saw Harambee Starlets resume on the front foot, maintaining their attacking intent and creating a number of promising chances, although they initially struggled to convert them into goals
Despite the setback, Harambee Starlets remained focused and disciplined. Their persistence paid off when Engesha doubled the lead with a well taken strike, effectively putting the game beyond India’s reach.
Australia, ranked 15th in the world, will provide Kenya with their toughest test yet, and Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba is urging her players to convert more chances in front of goal.
Speaking after Kenya’s win over India, Odemba admitted her side could have scored more goals, particularly in the first half.
“We took in instructions, we watched a lot of clips of India matches, we saw how they are playing,” she said, adding that the players executed well but they would have gotten more goals, especially in the first half.
Odemba revealed that Kenya’s approach was based on carefully studying India’s style of play and adapting accordingly.
“We knew their strength. They wanted to play through the middle and then run with the ball. The girls read the game well and adjusted to what would work for us,” she said
However, she noted that her team may have eased off after taking the lead noting that after getting the first goal, they got a little comfortable.
With a podium finish at stake, Kenya will now look to sharpen their attack and rise to the challenge against a higher-ranked Australian side.
Earlier in the day, Australia defeated Malawi 5-0 to begin the FIFA Series 2026 on a high note. Emily van Egmond and Sam Kerr were on the scoresheet in the first half before Alex Chidiac, Holly McNamara and Leticia McKenna, debuting, made it five.
By Anita Omwenga
