Coach Odemba calls on fans to rally behind Starlets as WAFCON preps take shape

Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has called on Kenyans to rally behind the national women's team, as preparations for the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) gather pace, saying positive support from fans will play a key role in boosting the players' confidence.

Speaking after the team's training session, which was open to the media, at Kasarani grounds, Odemba noted that while many of the players compete professionally, some still struggle with the mental demands that come with representing the country.

"We hope that fans can support the girls positively. Many of them are professional players, but sometimes they lack the mental strength to handle what is being said about them, and that becomes difficult for us as a technical bench," said Odemba.

The coach added that preparing the team goes beyond what happens on the pitch, especially with several players based abroad.

"It's a lot of work - on and off the pitch - there is a lot of communication with players outside the country, and we are constantly working to ensure everyone is on the same page," she said.

However, the team's preparations have been affected by the absence of some key players. Defenders Enez Mango and goalkeeper Lillian Awuor are yet to join the camp as they continue working on their travel permits, leaving their availability for the upcoming matches uncertain.

Odemba said the technical bench remains in constant communication with the players as they await updates on their travel arrangements.

The coach also highlighted the importance of recent friendly matches and team-building activities in helping the squad improve. She pointed to the team's tour, which included community outreach programmes in the Western and Nyanza regions, as part of efforts to strengthen unity within the squad.

"Playing friendlies has helped us improve. It helps the players see what they need to work on, both technically and psychologically, and it helps us identify the gaps that still need attention," she added.

Vice-captain Fasila Adhiambo echoed the coach's sentiments, saying the team is focused on making the most of the preparations ahead of the continental tournament.

"The preparations have been good, and the girls just need support so that we can be ready for WAFCON," said Adhiambo.

She acknowledged the challenges many female footballers face in their careers and urged Kenyans to continue backing the team.

"It was not easy getting the opportunity to play at this level, and I urge people to support us. We will continue working on our weaknesses and improving as a team," she said.

Adhiambo expressed confidence that the Starlets will approach the tournament positively, adding that the players are determined to be competitive.

The WAFCON championship will run from July 25 to August 16 in Morocco.