The Harambee Starlets faced a challenging start to their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 campaign after a 4-0 defeat against hosts Morocco on Sunday at Stade Prince Moulay Hassan in Rabat.
Making their first appearance in the tournament in a decade, Kenya showed initial promise with an early chance when Tereza Engesha’s shot struck the crossbar within the first 10 minutes. However, Morocco gradually took control and capitalised on defensive errors to pull ahead.
Morocco Dominates Early
- In the 19th minute, Yasmin Mrabet assisted Sakina Ouzraoui, who scored the opening goal.
- Morocco doubled the lead nine minutes later through a header by defender Maryame Atiq from a corner.
- Before halftime, Hanane Ait El Haj delivered a precise cross to Ibtissam Jraidi, who made it 3-0 with a header in the 32nd minute.
Second Half Seals Kenya’s Defeat
Shortly after the break, Morocco extended their lead when Jraidi scored her second goal following another assist from Ait El Haj in the 47th minute.
Despite tactical changes by coach Beldine Odemba and a more disciplined defensive effort in the closing stages, Kenya could not prevent the hosts from dominating the match.
Outlook for Kenya
With this result, Kenya sits at the bottom of Group A, following Algeria’s 2-0 win over Senegal. The Starlets must secure a positive result against Senegal in their next fixture to keep hopes of advancing alive. Their final group match will be against Algeria.
Though the defeat was heavy, the team displayed moments of attacking promise early on. The experience gained against a seasoned Moroccan side, which has reached the last two WAFCON finals, will be crucial as Kenya aims to regroup and improve.
