Harambee Starlets face a tough challenge in the second leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tunisia, set for Wednesday, 26 February, in Tunis.After a goalless draw in the first leg at Ulinzi Complex, Beldine Odemba and her technical team must address several tactical issues to ensure a better performance in the crucial away fixture.Crossing Problems and Wing PlayIn the first leg, the Starlets’ game plan heavily relied on wing play, with Elizabeth Wambui playing a central role. However, the execution was far from ideal, especially when delivering crosses into the box.New Gor Mahia head coach reveals his concern ahead of Mashemeji DerbyKenya attempted 38 crosses, but only 11 were accurate, translating to a poor success rate of just 11%. Of these, 29 originated from the right wing, where Wambui and Janet Mumo operated. However, only nine of these 29 crosses found their mark, with Wambui making 18 attempts and managing just six accurate ones.Mumo and Enez Mango each made six crosses but each managed only one accurate delivery. On the opposite wing, Mwanalima Adam’s four crosses resulted in just one accurate pass.Key Takeaway##NAJAVA_MECA_8725874##Wambui was the main attacking outlet for the team, but her inability to consistently deliver quality crosses meant that Kenya’s wing play lacked the desired impact. This is a critical area for improvement if the Starlets hope to challenge Tunisia in the second leg.Midfield Link-Up and Attacking StrugglesAnother major area of concern for Kenya was in the attacking midfield zone, where the link-up play between the midfielders and forwards was lacking. The attacking midfielder’s role is crucial in connecting the midfield with the attack and helping create goal-scoring opportunities.Benni McCarthy identifies his assistant coach head of Harambee Stars appointmentIn the first leg, Fasila Adhiambo and Cynthia Shilwatso both occupied the attacking midfield role at different points in the game. Fasila, who played in the first half, could not link up with her forwards. She managed just one pass exchange with Mwanalima Adam and failed to connect with either Shilwatso or Wambui.In the second half, Shilwatso took over as the number ten, with Elizabeth Mideva coming on to replace her upfront. But just like Fasila, Shilwatso struggled to find her forwards, managing only one successful link-up with Mwanalima. None of the other forwards—Mideva, Wambui, or Violet Nanjala—received a meaningful pass from her.Key Takeaway##NAJAVA_MECA_8725867##The poor link-up play between the midfield and attack resulted in just 21 goal attempts, of which only three were on target. For Kenya to create more quality chances and advance in the competition, the midfield must improve in linking up with the forwards more effectively.Psychological Pressure and External FactorsThe Starlets also enter the second leg under a cloud of uncertainty, which could negatively impact their performance. Reports of potential changes to the technical bench, including the imminent dismissal of coach Beldine Odemba, have created a tense atmosphere. This uncertainty could weigh heavily on the players and affect their focus heading into the fixture.Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba facing sack, replacement identifiedMoreover, the negative sentiment on social media surrounding the team could have seeped into the camp, further affecting the morale of the players. Managing this psychological pressure will be crucial for the Starlets if they are to remain mentally strong and perform at their best in Tunis.ConclusionWith a few tactical adjustments, especially in terms of improving wing play and midfield link-up, Harambee Starlets can still turn things around in the second leg.##NAJAVA_MECA_8725924##However, addressing the psychological pressures surrounding the team will also play a key role in their chances of success. The match in Tunisia promises to be a defining moment in their WAFCON 2026 qualification campaign.
