Harambee Starlets suffered a 1-0 defeat to Chinese Taipei in their opening match of the Pink Ladies Cup at Emirhan Stadium, Turkey, on Wednesday afternoon.Coach Beldine Odemba named a squad predominantly composed of local-based players and those competing in the Tanzanian league for the tournament. Vivian Nasaka, who plays in Turkey, was the only Europe-based player in the team that departed Kenya for Turkey on Monday.##NAJAVA_MECA_8435350##The match began evenly, with both teams pushing to break the deadlock early. However, neither side managed to score in the opening stages.Chinese Taipei eventually took the lead in the 19th minute after Kenya’s defenders failed to clear the ball off the line in time, allowing Taipei to score the game’s only goal.Starlets tried to respond but were unable to find an equalizer before halftime, as the first half ended with Chinese Taipei leading narrowly.At halftime, Coach Odemba made a tactical change, introducing Ulinzi Starlets’ Lavender Akinyi to replace Lydia Akoth, last season’s Women’s Premier League MVP, who struggled to make an impact in the first half.FKFPL: Ulinzi Stars holds Tusker FC as Bidco United end Kariobangi Sharks’ unbeaten runKenya showed more urgency in the second half, with Elizabeth Wambui and Fasila Odhiambo working hard to level the score. However, they were well-contained by Chinese Taipei’s defense, and despite their efforts, Taipei held on to secure all three points.Kenya’s next match is against Russia on Saturday, October 26, 2024, followed by a final group game against the Philippines on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.Starting XI: Annedy Kundu, Vivian Nasaka, Ruth Ingosi, Wincate Kaari, Norah Ann, Lydia Akoth, Lorna Nyarinda, Fasila Adhiambo, Elizabeth Mutukiza, Rebecca Okwaro, Purity AlukweSubs: Judith Osimbo, Lavender Akinyi, Fanis Kwamboka, Mollyne Akinyi, Providence Khasiala, Robby Maxmilla, Anna Arusi, Elizabeth Mideva, Lucy Kwekwe, Purity Alukwe, Achieng BeverlineFKF PL: Homeboyz, Sofapaka pick first wins as Shabana stumble at home.
