Harambee Starlets target improved performance in Algeria friendly rematch

Harambee Starlets are set for their international friendly rematch against hosts Algeria on Sunday, determined to bounce back after a narrow 2–1 defeat in their opening fixture on Tuesday in Blida.

Kenya started brightly in that match, taking an early lead through Mwanalima “Dogo” Adam, but defensive lapses and missed opportunities proved costly as the hosts mounted a comeback, sealing victory with a late 90th-minute goal.

Despite the setback, the coaching staff and players say the match provided important lessons ahead of Sunday’s clash and as part of their broader preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco.

In an interview, defender Ruth Ingosi insisted the loss should be viewed as a valuable learning experience rather than a step backwards.

“The game was good. Yes, we lost, but this has been a learning moment,” Ingosi said. “We’ve seen where we went wrong, and we will work on fixing the mistakes. On Sunday, we won’t repeat them.”

In Tuesday’s encounter, Kenya again showed their attacking promise when forward Jereko put them ahead in the 15th minute, but a shaky backline and failure to capitalize on additional chances allowed Algeria back into the game during the second half.

With WAFCON just months away, these friendly fixtures are crucial opportunities for the technical bench to assess squad depth, build cohesion, and refine tactical systems. The Starlets will be aiming for a sharper, more disciplined performance as they return to the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium on Sunday, November 30.

Kenya booked their place at next year’s continental showpiece after defeating Gambia 1–0 in the second leg of the third qualifying round on October 28 at the Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal. The victory completed a convincing 4–1 aggregate win, following their earlier 3–1 triumph in Nairobi.

The qualification marked a significant milestone for the Starlets, who will be making a return to Africa’s premier women’s football tournament and are now using high-profile friendlies such as the Algeria double-header to fine-tune their preparations.