Confident Harambee Starlets eye victory over Uganda in CECAFA showdown

Harambee Starlets forwards Swaum Nanjala Masungo and Faith Mboya have expressed confidence ahead of Kenya’s clash with Uganda's Crested Cranes on Tuesday in their second Group B fixture of the CECAFA Senior Women's Championship.

The match, scheduled for 7 PM EAT at the Azam Sports Complex in Dar es Salaam, will see the Starlets aiming to extend their winning streak after an impressive 3-0 victory over Burundi in their opening game on Sunday.

Masungo, who plies her trade with Vihiga Queens in the FKF Women’s Premier League, is enjoying her first-ever call-up to the national team. She credited the team’s strong preparation for their confident outlook heading into the Uganda fixture.

"I'm very happy to earn my first national team call-up. I only played the second leg of the league for Vihiga Queens, and that's when coach Odemba spotted my talent and gave me this chance. I was a bit nervous in our first match against Burundi, but the coach spoke to me and now I feel ready to give my all for the country.

"That win gave us a big morale boost, and we are determined to play for the flag. The mood in camp is great, and we’re optimistic about getting another win," said Masungo.

Her sentiments were echoed by Kibera Soccer Women’s striker Faith Mboya, who scored the third goal in the win over Burundi.

"I was excited to score my first goal for the national team. Heading into today’s match, the confidence in the team is high. I urge my teammates to remain focused—we want to win both the match and the tournament," Mboya emphasized.

Kenya’s emphatic win over Burundi marked a strong start to their CECAFA campaign—their first appearance in the regional competition since 2019. That year, the Starlets dominated the group stage, including a 5-0 victory over Burundi, before defeating hosts Tanzania 2-0 in the final to claim the title.

With key players like Cynthia Amunyolet—who netted a brace on Sunday—and the in-form Mboya stepping up, Kenya looks poised to replicate its championship-winning form from five years ago. The team’s blend of experienced players and fresh talent has reignited hope among fans for another title run.

Kenya’s encounter with Uganda will be preceded by the Group ‘B’ match between hosts Tanzania and Burundi, kicking off at 4 PM EAT. Tanzania started their campaign in style with a 4-0 win over South Sudan.