Harambee Starlets of Kenya on Friday evening produced a spirited comeback to defeat Gambia 3–1 in the first leg of the final round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. The result put Kenya firmly in control of the tie and one step away from qualifying for the continental showpiece that will be held in Cameroon.
Despite a dominant start, the home side was stunned early when Gambia’s Fatoumata Kanyet Cham, who plies her trade with Sevilla Women FC in Spain, capitalized on a defensive lapse by Ilavonga to slot home the opener in the 4th minute. The early goal momentarily silenced the lively Nyayo crowd but also sparked an immediate response from the Starlets.
Kenya quickly settled and began pressing forward with intent. Their persistence paid off in the 10th minute when captain Mwanahalima Adam calmly converted from the penalty spot after Martha Amnyolete was fouled inside the box, restoring parity. With the equalizer secured, the Starlets maintained control, pinning Gambia deep into their half.
In the 19th minute, Fasila Adhiambo gave Kenya the lead with a thunderous strike that left the Gambian goalkeeper with no chance. The home side continued to dominate possession, creating several chances as the visitors struggled to keep up with the pace and intensity.
Shalyen Opisa, who had earlier seen a goal disallowed for offside, eventually found the back of the net in first-half added time, making it 3–1 to Kenya. Her goal provided a comfortable cushion heading into the break, effectively putting the Starlets in command of the tie.
The second half was a controlled affair for Kenya, who managed the game efficiently to preserve their advantage and edge closer to qualification. The win now means that Kenya will only need to avoid defeat in the return leg to secure their place at next year’s WAFCON.
The reverse fixture is scheduled for Tuesday at Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal, where Gambia will host the match due to the lack of a CAF-approved stadium at home.
Ahead of the crucial encounter, President William Ruto had boosted team morale with a Ksh 5 million donation and a set of performance-based incentives. FKF President Hussein Mohammed revealed that the Head of State pledged Ksh 5 million for a home win, Ksh 2.5 million for a draw, Ksh 1 million each if the team wins away and qualifies, and Ksh 500,000 each if they draw away and qualify.
