In an exhilarating showdown at Nyayo National Stadium, the Harambee Starlets triumphed over Cameroon, securing their ticket to the next stage of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers. The match saw a dramatic climax, with the Starlets prevailing 4-3 in a penalty shootout.
The Starlets’ journey to victory kicked off with an impressive performance by Cynthia Shilwatso, who netted the opening goal with a brilliantly executed free-kick. They relentlessly applied pressure on the formidable Indomitable Lionesses throughout the match.
Despite Kenya clinching a 1-0 victory in regulation time, the contest was far from over due to the aggregate score being deadlocked at 1-1, stemming from the Starlets’ earlier defeat in the first leg of the qualifiers.
In the initial encounter at Douala’s Reunification Stadium on September 22, the Starlets had succumbed to a 1-0 loss against Cameroon. However, their unwavering determination drove them to redeem themselves on the grand stage.
The nail-biting penalty shootout commenced with the Indomitable Lionesses converting their first attempt. Starlet captain Ruth Ingosi faced the pressure as she stepped up for Kenya’s first spot kick, but Cameroon’s goalkeeper thwarted her effort.
Nevertheless, the Starlets regained their poise, delivering flawless spot kicks, and it was Sheryl Angachi who clinched the pivotal final penalty to propel her team into the second stage of the qualifiers.
Looking ahead, the Starlets are set to face either Gabon or Botswana in the upcoming second round of qualifiers. The victor of this round will secure an automatic berth in the 2024 WAFCON tournament, slated to be held in Morocco.
Fans can mark their calendars for the anticipated second round clash, scheduled to unfold between November 27 and December 5. The Harambee Starlets are undoubtedly poised to continue their quest for WAFCON glory, driven by their recent triumphant performance.
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