Shilwatso, Opisa fire warning ahead of Starlets clash with Senegal

The Starlets face Senegal tonight at 8pm (EAT) at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat in a must-win encounter for Beldine Odemba's side as they seek to keep their hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Shilwatso said the team had used the defeat to Morocco as a learning experience.

"After our loss to Morocco, we immediately returned to training to work on the mistakes we made. I can confidently say we are ready for Senegal. We will give everything because this match will determine whether we stay in the tournament or go home."

Kenya are targeting a place in the semi-finals, which would secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, scheduled to be held from 24 June to 25 July.

Winger Shirleen Opisa echoed her teammate's optimism, insisting the opening defeat had only strengthened the squad's resolve.

"We are fully prepared for our second match. Losing the opener didn't discourage us; instead, it made us stronger ahead of tonight's fixture. We learnt a lot from playing Morocco. They are one of the best teams in the world and, despite the result, we gave a good account of ourselves," Opisa averred.

Veteran forward Violet Nanjala Wanyonyi, who plays in the Maltese Women's Premier League, also believes the Starlets have what it takes to get their campaign back on track.

"Losing the first match doesn't mean our tournament is over. It has motivated us to prove ourselves. A team that has prepared well has no reason to panic, and we are that team. We know Senegal are a physical side, but we are equally capable of matching them. Confidence in the camp is high and everyone is ready for the challenge."

Senegal head coach Serigne Mousse has warned his players against underestimating Kenya, insisting the Starlets deserve their place at the tournament.

"We need to be more competitive and make the most of this opportunity. Kenya have players with strong qualities. They are aggressive and possess plenty of individual talent," he said.

Kenya will conclude their Group A campaign against Algeria on 3 August at the Olympic Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 11pm Kenyan time.

Elsewhere in Group A, hosts Morocco will face Algeria at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium, with kick-off at 8pm Kenyan time.