Head coach of the Kenya women’s national team, Beldine Odemba, has affirmed that their goal is to achieve victory over Australia in the upcoming FIFA Women’s Series match at Nyayo Stadium on Wednesday.
The Harambee Starlets reached this stage by defeating India 2-0, paving the way for a clash with the Matildas, formerly known as the “Female Socceroos.” Australia, on the other hand, showcased their strength with a resounding 5-0 win against Malawi.
Emily Van Egmond, Sam Kerr, Alex Chidiac, Holly McNamara, and Leticia McKenna were all on target in a commanding win for Australia in Nairobi. While Kenya has a solid reputation in Africa, Australia boasts a rich history, including three OFC titles, one AFC title, and one AFF title.
The Australian team has represented their country at the FIFA Women’s World Cup on eight occasions (including co-hosting in 2023) and has participated in the Olympic Games five times, although they have yet to secure a title in either event.
Despite their impressive track record, Odemba remains unfazed about facing Australia, expressing confidence in her team’s ability to cause an upset.
‘A Significant Moment for the Starlets’
“This will be our first time playing against them (Australia), and we are well-prepared for this encounter. It’s an exciting opportunity to challenge ourselves against a formidable opponent,” she stated.
“I have always said that to grow as a team, you need to compete against the best, so we’re thrilled to be facing them.”
“This will be an invaluable learning experience for us, a momentous occasion for our players, our nation, and for me as their coach, to compete against such a prestigious team that has participated in the World Cup eight times.”
Odemba mentioned, “We are taking significant steps towards our development, and this represents a great challenge for us.”
Addressing injury concerns, Odemba noted: “There is one or maybe two players who won’t be participating. As you know, Ruth (Ingosi) is recovering from an injury that required stitches, so she will be unavailable for about two weeks.”
“We are also keeping an eye on Valerie (Nekesa), who suffered a thigh knock against India. It’s not serious, but we can’t guarantee her availability yet.”
Odemba concluded: “The players recognise they will be up against big names and understand they are competing against a more established team, which has its own tactical style. To face such a tactical side, we need to be well-prepared and play tactically as well. We have addressed all aspects in our preparations.”
“Competing with such teams is crucial for our growth. We aspire to reach that level, and we can only do so by challenging ourselves against higher-ranked teams.”
“This game is a significant test for us; whether we win, draw, or lose—which is not something we’re focused on right now— is a vital experience and a substantial step forward for women’s football.”
“It’s beneficial to experience what it’s like to compete against teams recognised globally as giants. We need opportunities like this to demonstrate our capabilities.”
‘Australia Is Just Another Team’
Kenya’s captain, Mwanalima Adam, commented: “Australia is just another team, and this is just another game. What truly matters is how we approach it. We have faith in our abilities.”
“It’s an exciting match-up against a team packed with experienced players.”
Defender Elizabeth Ochaka shared her thoughts on facing Chelsea striker Sam Kerr: “Honestly, I’m not afraid of her. She has two legs just like I do.”
“Playing against such stars is an exceptional opportunity as we gear up for WAFCON, where we’ll face top-tier talent.”
Before Kenya faces Australia, Malawi will compete against India in a third-place playoff. The Scorchers are hoping to end their tournament with a positive result after a heavy loss to Australia.
“We are preparing thoroughly for the match against India. We’ve addressed the mistakes made in our initial game against Australia, and the players recognise the significance of this upcoming fixture. We expect to secure a win and everyone is eager,” asserted Malawi coach Lovemore Fazili.
He added, “Tactically and technically, India is a well-organised team. They employed a 4-4-2 formation and pressed cohesively. We have trained with this awareness, and our approach will be constructive.”
The FIFA Series serves as a vital preparatory stage for Kenya ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which will be instrumental in paving the way for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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