Starlets showed promise despite Australia loss, says Mwanahalima

Goals from Sam Kerr and Clare Wheeler in the 25th and 54th minutes respectively handed the Matildas a 2-0 victory over the Starlets on Wednesday at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, crowning them champions of the inaugural FIFA Series.

Kenya paid the price for missed opportunities in what was an entertaining and competitive final. 

The Starlets created several dangerous chances but were let down by poor finishing and decision-making in the final third. Defensive lapses also proved costly, allowing Australia to capitalize and secure the win.

Adam, who turns out for HB Køge Women in the Danish Women’s Premier League, said the tournament provided a valuable platform to measure the team’s progress ahead of upcoming continental assignments. 

She expressed confidence that Kenya has shown enough quality to compete at the highest level.

“My takeaway from the tournament is that we are ready for the World Cup, and we should focus on achieving that dream soon,” said Adam, popularly known as Dogo, in an interview with Citizen Digital.

“I had said before that the game would be decided in normal time, and that is what happened. It was a very entertaining match and a great tournament that has sharpened our skills ahead of future competitions.

“We took the game to them, and they have seen what we are capable of. We had good possession, and they saw our quality. I am proud of my team, and we will build on this performance.”

Adam is optimistic about Kenya’s chances in the upcoming 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place from July 25 to August 16 in Rabat, Morocco.

Kenya first appeared at WAFCON in 2016, where they were eliminated at the group stage. Since then, the team has been working to establish itself among Africa’s top sides.

Africa’s qualification pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup—to be held in Brazil—offers increased opportunities for teams on the continent.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has been allocated four direct qualification slots, which will go to the semi-finalists at WAFCON 2026.

In addition, two more African teams will have a chance to qualify via the intercontinental play-offs, potentially raising Africa’s representation to six teams.

This means that for Kenya to secure automatic qualification, the Starlets must reach at least the semi-finals—a significant but achievable milestone given their recent performances. A quarter-final finish could still keep their hopes alive through the play-offs.

With growing confidence, improved performances, and exposure to high-level competition, the Harambee Starlets appear determined to turn their World Cup dream into reality.