2026 WAFCON qualifiers: Harambee Starlets learn final opponent in bid for continental return

Harambee Starlets will face The Gambia Women Scorpions in the final round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers in October 2025.

Kenya punched their ticket to this decisive round after edging out Tunisia with a 1-0 aggregate win in the second round. 

Treza Engesha’s early third-minute goal in the second-leg clash in Sousse, Tunisia, proved to be the difference, sending the Starlets through to the last stage of qualification. 

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Despite Tunisia’s relentless efforts to level the score, including two missed penalty attempts, Kenya held firm thanks to an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Lilian Awuor, who saved both spot-kicks to keep her team in the tournament.

The first leg of the highly anticipated clash against The Gambia will be played in Nairobi, where the Starlets will look to capitalize on home advantage before traveling for the return leg. 

The Gambia, under the guidance of head coach Bom Sowe, booked their place in the final round with an impressive 4-1 aggregate victory over Niger. 

They claimed a commanding 2-0 win in the first leg in Niamey before sealing their qualification with a 2-1 victory at home.

For Kenya, this final hurdle represents a golden opportunity to return to WAFCON for the first time since their debut appearance in 2016. 

On the other hand, The Gambia is chasing history, hoping to secure their maiden WAFCON qualification. 

The Queen Scorpions have proven to be a formidable side, with players like Massey Darboe and Fatou Kanteh leading their charge. 

However, facing a determined Kenyan side with experienced players like Corazon Aquino and the heroic Lilian Awuor will be a tough challenge.

The battle in Nairobi will set the tone for the tie, and Kenya will be eager to make a strong statement before heading to Banjul.

Harambee Starlets now have a chance to write a new chapter in their history, but they must overcome a spirited Gambian side that is equally determined to make its mark.