TotalEnergies CAF Women’s AFCON 2026: Kenya returns after 10 years

For the first time since 2016, the Harambee Starlets are returning to the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having successfully managed a two-legged tie against The Gambia.

After a 3–1 home victory followed by a 1–0 win away, the Kenyans have made a remarkable comeback on the continental stage.

In the first leg in Nairobi, Beldine Odemba’s players recovered well after a shaky start. Stunned by an early goal from Fatou Kanteh in the 3rd minute, the Kenyans kept their composure and quickly turned things around.

In the 12th minute, Aisha Adam equalized with a superb cross-shot, before Freda Adhiambo put Kenya ahead in the 19th minute with a low, precise strike. Just before halftime, Shalyne Opisa finished off a brilliant team move to score the third goal (45+2’), sealing a well-deserved 3–1 win for the Starlets.

For several years, Kenyan women’s football had gone through a difficult period. The victory over The Gambia therefore meant much more than simple qualification — it symbolized a true rebirth.

The return leg in Banjul confirmed Kenya’s tactical and mental superiority.

Despite a home crowd fully behind the Gambians, Odemba’s side showed composure and discipline. With captain Ruth Ingosi marshalling a solid defense, the Starlets gave their opponents very few chances. In the 51st minute, Mwanahalima Adam Jereko broke the deadlock with the only goal of the match, sealing Kenya’s qualification with an aggregate score of 4–1.

Road to the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2026

First round:

First leg: Kenya 0–0 Tunisia

Second leg: Tunisia 1–0 Kenya

Second round:

First leg: Kenya 3–1 Gambia

Second leg: Kenya 1–0 Gambia

Aggregate score: Kenya wins 4–1

 Kenya at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations

First participation: 2016

Number of participations: 2 (2016 & 2026)

Best performance: Group stage (2016)

Head coach: Beldine Odemba

Captain: Mwanahalima Adam Jereko