Harambee Starlets achieved a vital 1-0 victory over Tunisia, progressing to the second round of the WAFCON 2026 Qualifiers. Even with questions looming over coach Beldine Odemba and her staff, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience and executed a tactically disciplined performance.

Kenya set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on solid defensive organization and quick transitions. Lillian Awuor started in goal, while fullbacks Janet Mumo and Enez Mango supported the defense, with Dorcas Shikobe and Ruth Ingosi at center-back.

The midfield was anchored by Lavender Akinyi and Corazone Aquino in the double pivot, with Tereza Engesha operating just ahead of them, balancing between an attacking midfielder and support striker roles. The attacking width came from wingers Mwanahalima Adam and Elizabeth Wambui, with Jentrix Shikangwa leading the line as the central striker. 

Kenya's approach was largely counter-attacking, focusing on exploiting Tunisia's high defensive line and using quick transitions to launch attacks. In the early stages, this strategy paid off; a poor clearance by Tunisia allowed Engesha to capitalize with a low, long-range shot, securing an early and decisive lead for Kenya, ultimately the match's only goal.

Kenya's Defensive Organization 

Kenya's defensive setup was flexible, adjusting between a 4-5-1 and 4-1-4-1 depending on the game situation. When defending deeper, Wambui and Mwanahalima joined the midfield to form a solid block ahead of the back four, with Shikangwa remaining isolated up top. At times, Akinyi would drop between the defenders, creating an additional layer to stifle Tunisia’s attacks. 

In the second half, Kenya’s defensive adjustments paid off. Mumo, reacting to Zemzem's first-half threats, switched to a more defensive role, tucking inside to create a three-player line with Shikobe and Ingosi, abandoning her overlapping runs.

This denied Zemzem space to exploit the channels, and Tunisia’s offensive threat significantly reduced.

Kenya remained dangerous on the counter, however, they struggled with possession, giving the ball away in dangerous areas. Tunisia failed to capitalize on these mistakes, unable to find the final ball or create clear-cut chances. 

In a tense moment late in the game, Kenya's Awuor made another crucial save, this time denying a penalty after a handling error in the box. The match ended 1-0 in favor of Kenya, with Awuor's inspired performance and key saves proving pivotal.

Tunisia's Formation, Playstyle, and Missed Opportunities 

Tunisia deployed a 3-4-3 formation, seeking to control possession and create overloads in both central and wide areas. In goal, Zohra Jelassi was shielded by a back three of Chaima Alabbassi, Rania Aouina, and Samia Ouni. Myriam Bayahia and Guermazi Sana played as wingbacks, while Ella Kabaachi and Chirine Lamti formed the midfield pairing. Salma Zemzem, Ella Kabaachi, and Sabrine Elouzi formed the front three, looking to combine with quick, direct attacks. 

Tunisia's attacking strategy focused on using long balls into the half-spaces and behind Kenya's defense to stretch the opposition. Zemzem, in particular, was a constant threat, making runs in behind the defense and into the channels. This tactic almost paid off when Zemzem’s pace terrorized Mumo, notably in the 25^th minute when she dribbled past the defender only for her shot to be deflected out for a corner. 

After Kenya's early goal, Tunisia continued to press and adjust their tactics. They created several dangerous moments, particularly through Zemzem’s runs. Tunisia’s persistence paid off when they were awarded a penalty after Mumo fouled Zemzem in the box. However, Kenya’s goalkeeper, Awuor, came to the rescue with a brilliant save, denying Kabaachi’s penalty attempt. 

Tunisia’s attacking moves included using wingbacks to overload wide areas, while Kabaachi occasionally dropped deep into midfield to help control possession. Their strategy was based on building up possession through the center before quickly launching attacks down the flanks or into the channels, trying to bypass the Kenyan defense. Despite this approach, Tunisia was unable to find the equalizer in the match. 

Gambia Next for Harambee Starlets

Kenya’s tactical discipline and resolute defending were key to their victory over Tunisia. The team capitalized on a quick transition to take an early lead, then held firm under pressure. Despite Tunisia’s attacking intent, Kenya’s defensive shape and goalkeeper Awuor’s heroics kept them ahead, securing a crucial win in their WAFCON 2026 Qualifier campaign.

Next, the Harambee Starlets face Gambia in the final WAFCON qualifier round. Kenya hosts the first leg on October 20^th, and Gambia hosts the second on October 28^th.

Feature Image Credit: Harambee Starlets