Odemba explains significance of Harambee Starlets’ friendlies against Morocco

Starlets thrashed Morocco 5-0 in the second international friendly between the two sides at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat on Tuesday afternoon.

Fasila Odhiambo opened Harambee Starlets’ account in the 16th minute before Mwanalima Dogo continued her hot streak with the second in the 36th minute.

Dogo, who starred for Starlets in last week’s come-from-behind 2-2 draw with the North Africans – then added her second immediately after the break before Violet Nanjala and substitute Elizabeth Mideva completed the score line in the 53rd and 89 minutes respectively.

"To me I can say it was a very nice exposure to my girls considering that we have no any competitive competition for now and it's a good chance for me to build the team to ensure it's ready come next year.

“The new players have really impressed me and I included them to the squad because they were performing where they are based. A good example is Beverlyne and Chesang who are among the top scorers in the Kenyan Women Premier League as for now,” she said.

“As a coach I must rope in young players as part of building my future. I'm also interested in Junior Starlets captain Elizabeth (Ochaka) input. She has shown very good determination and she has played like she has been in the senior team for long. That's the legacy I want o to build.”

Odemba sentiments were also echoed by Municipal De Layooune (Morocco) forward Violet Nanjala Wanyonyi.

"Beating Morrocco has been a big motivation to the team and me personally considering that I play in Morocco and I know their style of play. It has been a while since we played together like this and to me I can say it's good to gauge ourselves.

“Seeing the young and experienced players in the squad gives me hope that the future is going to be bright. I just want to advise the Federation and the Government to organise for us this kind of friendly matches frequently as a way of keeping fit and that's what will make us qualify for big events including world cup.”

Starlets had settled for a 2-2 draw against the same opponents on Friday, clawing back from a 2-0 deficit courtesy of Dogo’s brace.

Among those included in the trip to North Africa are defender Elizabeth Ochaka, who captained the national under 17 team at October’s World Cup in Dominican Republic.

Also making the cut were fellow Rising Starlet Christine Adhiambo, Trinity Starlets’ Jackline Chesang and Vihiga Queens’ Diana Cherono who have really impressed in the local league.