2026 WAFCON: Nanjala backs Harambee Starlets to overpower The Gambia in Nairobi

Harambee Starlets striker Violet Nanjala says the team is well-prepared and raring to go ahead of their clash with The Gambia in the first leg of the final round of the 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers, set for Friday at Nyayo National Stadium.

Nanjala, who has been instrumental in the team’s recent matches, says confidence in camp is high and the players are fully focused on getting a positive result at home.

“We are just finalizing our preparations, but we are ready for The Gambia. This match is also an opportunity for most of us to feature in the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Friday’s game will not be easy but according to the training we have done, we will overpower them,” said Nanjala.

The Starlets have spent the last three weeks in intensive residential training, fine-tuning their tactics ahead of the crucial tie.

Their goal — to take full advantage in Nairobi before travelling for the return leg in Senegal next week.

Under the guidance of head coach Beldine Odemba, Kenya is pushing for a return to the continental stage for the first time since 2016, when they made their WAFCON debut in Cameroon.

A win over the two legs would secure the Starlets’ qualification for the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco.