Austria-based forward Sylvia Makungu is dreaming of donning the national colours again as Kenya’s Harambee Starlets gear up for a crucial 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against The Gambia in October.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsMakungu, who plays for FC Wacker Innsbruck in Austria’s second division, says she is eager to earn a call-up for the decisive two-legged tie, which will determine Kenya’s return to the continental stage for the first time since 2016.“Of course, it is every player’s dream to get to the national team, and I have that ambition as well,” Makungu told Telecomasia.net from Austria.##NAJAVA_MECA_8967500##“I’ve played at the junior levels, and I’m crossing my fingers for an opportunity to represent the country. I’ve worked hard this season, and I believe my form warrants a chance. If called up, I’m ready to give my best for Kenya. This is a really important tournament, and it’s always been my dream to play at WAFCON.”The 22-year-old has had a standout season, starting in 12 of Wacker Innsbruck’s 22 league games and netting eight goals, impressive numbers for a striker pushing for more recognition.Farouk Shikalo opens up on Harambee Stars’ mentorship roleDespite making her debut for the Starlets in 2020, Makungu has struggled to establish a regular spot in the squad, a situation she hopes to change.Her desire comes at a time when the national team is battling a goal drought, with just two goals in their last five matches.Starlets narrowly edged Tunisia 1-0 on aggregate in the previous round of WAFCON qualifiers but have since suffered three heavy defeats in friendlies, twice against Ivory Coast (2-0 in both matches) and a 5-1 loss to Morocco.NSL: Darajani Gogo tails up after moving to promotion playoff positionHead coach Beldine Odemba is now tasked with addressing the team’s lack of cutting edge upfront, and Makungu could provide a timely boost ahead of the October fixtures.Kenya must beat The Gambia over two legs to book their ticket to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.##NAJAVA_MECA_8969726##The tournament holds special significance for the Starlets, who are aiming to return after their historic debut in 2016.
