A late goal in Blida handed Kenya’s Harambee Starlets a stinging 2-1 defeat to Algeria on Wednesday night, a sobering start to their high-stakes preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

This friendly, the first of two against the North African side, serves as a critical benchmark for a team carrying the nation's hopes. After a near decade-long absence, the Starlets are not just aiming to compete at WAFCON; they are fighting for a semi-final finish which would secure a historic berth at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Despite the loss, the mood in the camp is one of resilience. Veteran forward Mwanahalima Adam, who was instrumental in their qualification campaign, found the net in the 15th minute before Algeria rallied. “The match was good even though we lost, but it’s a learning moment for us,” noted defender Ruth Ingosi after the match. “We will improve in our next game because we have seen our mistakes and we will correct them.”

The Road to Morocco and Beyond

Head Coach Beldine Odemba is using the Algerian tour to test her squad's depth, blending seasoned players with rising stars ahead of the tournament in Morocco, scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026. The challenge is immense, but so is the opportunity. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has pledged its full support for the team's preparations.

The financial incentives underscore the tournament's importance. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has significantly increased the prize money for the competition, with the champion set to pocket $1 million (approx. KES 130 million). Reaching the latter stages would mean a transformative payday for the players and a massive boost for women's football in Kenya.

Key details for the Starlets' WAFCON journey include:

• Historic Qualification: Secured a WAFCON spot after a nine-year absence by defeating The Gambia 4-1 on aggregate.
• Immediate Focus: A second friendly match against Algeria on Sunday, November 30, offers a chance for immediate adjustments.
• Ultimate Goal: A top-four finish at WAFCON to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Building a Formidable Squad

Coach Odemba has signaled her intent to build a competitive team by calling up new faces like Zetech Sparks defender Sheryl Muyera for the Algeria friendlies, while also managing the absence of key players due to injury or other commitments. The narrow loss, while disappointing, provides the technical bench with invaluable data on where to strengthen before the continental showdown.

As the Starlets regroup for their second test in Blida, the focus is clear. Every pass, every tackle, and every minute on the pitch is a step towards being ready for Morocco, where they will carry the ambition of not just participating, but making a definitive statement on Africa's biggest stage.