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The Czech-based midfielder was unexpectedly omitted from the Starlets squad but expressed her dream to represent Kenya in the future.
Kenya international Marjolen Wafula Nekesa has unveiled the unexpected reason behind her Harambee Starlets absence from the crucial qualifiers of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Hailing from the top-tier Czech side Slavia Prague Women, Nekesa's prowess on the field has never been in doubt.
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18:30 - 18.09.2023
FOOTBALL: Harambee Starlets hidden card ahead of tough Cameroon duel
The Kenya national women’s team is confident of edging Cameroon in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier having been boosted by the availability of several foreign-based players
Her consistent performances had cemented her spot as one of the most promising talents to watch.
Thus, when the traveling contingent list was published for the Harambee Starlets' forthcoming showdown against Cameroon, the absence of Nekesa's name came as a shock to many.
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11:06 - 14.09.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba expresses concerns ahead of Cameroon clash
The coach expresses readiness concerns ahead of crucial 2024 Africa Women's Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Cameroon.
In a heartfelt statement, Nekesa shed light on the situation, revealing that her omission from the squad was down to health-related concerns.
“It was an honor to be trusted and called up for the national team,” Nekesa began, her words tinged with palpable disappointment.
“I have waited for so long for such a moment, to represent my country, and accomplish my childhood dream, but God decided it wasn’t time yet.”
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11:00 - 12.09.2023
FOOTBALL: Harambee Starlets coach Odemba's headache ahead of WAFCON qualifiers
Odemba faces tough decisions in selecting top forwards and defenders for the upcoming 2024 WAFCON qualifiers.
The midfielder further shared her deep desire to represent her homeland on the grandest stages, saying, “Due to health issues, I haven’t been able to join the team this time but I wish the team all the best in the coming matches. I'm still keeping my dream alive and looking forward to featuring for the national team in future assignments.”
Despite Nekesa’s setback, the Harambee Starlets are pushing ahead, having departed for Cameroon on Tuesday, September 19.
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20:00 - 10.09.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Starlets begin preparations for 2024 WAFCON qualifier against Cameroon
Bedline Odemba’s charges have hit camp to tune up for the grueling two-legged encounter against the Indomitable Lionesses
With the first-leg match in Douala scheduled for Friday, September 22, the team is undoubtedly feeling the weight of expectation as they represent Kenya in these crucial qualifiers.
Should the Starlets conquer their Cameroonian rivals over the two legs, the path ahead is already charted. Either Gabon or Botswana will be their opponents in the second round, set between November 27 and December 5.
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11:30 - 07.09.2023
FOOTBALL: Harambee Starlets duo shine in UEFA Women's Champions League
Kenyan internationals Cynthia Shilwatso and Essie Akinda played in UEFA Women's Champions League matches, with mixed results, before their WAFCON clash.
Winning the second round means a ticket to the 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations in Morocco - a tantalizing prospect for any team.
Harambee Starlets:
Goalkeepers: Valentine Kwaka (Kenya Police Bullets FC), Annedy Kundu (Ness Atromitos FC), Caroline Rufa (Simba Queens)
Defenders: Phoebe Owiti (Vihiga Queens), Enez Mango (Farul Constanta), Wincate Kaari (Yanga Princess), Ruth Ingosi (Simba Queens), Vivian Nasaka (Hakkarigucuspor), Janet Moraa (Vihiga Queens), Waganda Lydia Akoth (Buja Queens), Juliet Auma (Kenya Police Bullets)
Midfielders :Cynthia Shilwatso (FC Kryvbas Women), Sheryl Angachi (Ulinzi Starlets), Vivian Corazone (Simba Queens), Mercyline Anyango (JFK Panthers), Mercy Njeri (Kenya Police Bullets).
Forwards: Jentrix Shikangwa (Beijing Jingtan FC), Elizabeth Wambui (Simba Queens), Mwanalima Adam (Hakkarigucuspor), Esse Akida (FC PAOK), Tereza Engesha (Hyundai Steel R.A), Violet Nanjala (AMLFF LAAYOUNE), Mercy Airo (Ulinzi Starlets)
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