The Harambee Starlets kick off their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign against hosts Morocco on Sunday at 11pm Kenyan time. The Group A match takes place at Rabat’s Moulay El Hassan Stadium, with Algeria facing Senegal earlier at 8pm.

This tournament doubles as Africa’s final qualifying event for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The top four semi-finalists will earn automatic World Cup spots, while two additional teams will advance to inter-confederation playoffs.

Starlets Seek Breakthrough

Kenya enters the competition as underdogs, ranked 124th globally, the lowest in their group. Morocco, Algeria, and Senegal hold higher FIFA rankings of 64th, 74th, and 81st respectively. The Starlets’ previous WAFCON appearance was in 2016, where they exited at the group stage after losses to Ghana, Mali, and Nigeria.

Coach Beldine Odemba’s squad arrives after a week-long training camp in France but missed out on planned friendlies against Lyon and Marseille. Their latest competitive action was at the Four Nations Tournament in Zambia, finishing third.

Host Morocco’s Strength

Morocco, finalists in the last edition, are among the favourites. They boast a squad with many players active in Europe’s top leagues and have enjoyed strong pre-tournament form, including a 5-0 friendly win over Cape Verde. Their captain, Ghizlane Chebbak, the 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year, leads the team’s title ambitions.

Key Players and Tactical Notes

  • Kenya: Goalkeeper Lilian Awuor returns to the starting lineup after missing the Zambia match. Defender Enez Mango is also expected to start. Captain Mwanahalima Adam will lead the midfield alongside Martha Amunyolette. Teresa Engesha and Airin Madalina are likely to spearhead the attack.
  • Morocco: Led by captain Ghizlane Chebbak, known for her leadership and goal-scoring prowess, the Atlas Lionesses will rely on their European-based stars to secure a first continental title.

A win or strong performance against Morocco would boost Kenya’s chances of reaching the WAFCON knockout stages for the first time and potentially securing their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup berth.