The coach expresses readiness concerns ahead of crucial 2024 Africa Women's Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Cameroon.
Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has voiced her apprehensions as her team gears up for the crucial 2024 Africa Women's Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against formidable opponents, Cameroon.
The first leg of this high-stakes encounter is set to take place in Cameroon on Friday, September 22, with the return leg scheduled at home on September 26.
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Starlets, who have been diligently preparing for this crucial encounter, reported to camp on Sunday, September 10.
Among the notable foreign-based player arrivals is Terry Engesha, a key player hailing from the South Korea WK League club Hyundai Steel Red Angels.
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The coach was quick to heap praise on the quality of some of Kenya's players, such as captain Michael Olunga and keeper Bryne Omondi.
Odemba expressed her concerns regarding the delayed arrival of several foreign-based players, a situation that has been weighing on her mind.
"Foreign-based players are trickling into camp, but many of them have not arrived yet. They will be joining us in a few days, which is not what I had hoped for. However, I expect them to arrive when they are all fit. These foreign-based players will bring their experience to the team,” she stated.
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The coach's worries are not unfounded, as the likes of Mwanahalima Adam, Marjolene Nekesa, and Wincate Kaari, among others, are expected to report to camp on the 18th of September, just four days before the clash with Cameroon.
The limited time for the team to gel and practice together may pose a significant challenge as they face the formidable Cameroonian side.
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Despite these concerns, coach Odemba remains resolute in her approach to the upcoming matches.
"When we go to Cameroon, we don't want to play defensively. We will go there to play attacking football," she emphasized.
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After a spirited performance in their win over Qatar last week, Stars were brought down to earth as they lost 1-0 to South Sudan.
Cameroon, being a strong and experienced team on the continent, will pose a formidable challenge for Harambee Starlets.
Playing away in the first leg will add to the pressure, making a solid game plan and teamwork even more crucial.
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Foreign legion
Annedy Kundu (Ness Atromitou FC), Caroline Rufa (Simba Queens), Dorcas Shikobe (Sirines of Grevena), Enez Mango (Farul Constanta), Wincate Kaari (Yanga Princess), Ruth Ingosi (Simba Queens), Vivian Nasaka (Hakkarigucuspor),Cynthia Shilwatso (FC Kryvbas Women), SVivian Corazone (Simba Queens), Marjolene Nekesa(SK Slavia Praha), Mercyline Anyango (JFK Panthers),Jentrix Shikangwa (Beijing Jingtan FC), Topista Situma (Fountain Gates Princess), Mwanalima Adam (Hakkarigucuspor), Esse Akida (FC PAOK), Tereza Engesha (Hyundai Steel R.A), Violet Nanjala (AMLFF LAAYOUNE),