Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has hailed the recent international friendlies against Ivory Coast as important in preparing her team for upcoming competitive fixtures.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News!!Odemba stressed the importance of such high-profile build-up matches, saying they help sharpen the squad for tougher assignments ahead.“Games like these are vital for gauging our current level, building consistency, and identifying areas that need improvement,” said the FKF Women Premier League-winning coach, who recently led Kenya Police Bullets to glory.##NAJAVA_MECA_8842314##“Playing against strong teams like Ivory Coast shows us what we must do to be ready for the challenges ahead.”Odemba retained the core of the squad that featured in the successful first round of WAFCON qualifiers against Tunisia, while also bringing in key additions such as Vivian Nasaka, Ann Norah, Faith Mboya, and Lucy Kwekwe during the friendlies.She called on football administrators to continue securing more top-tier friendlies, especially during international windows.“We want to utilize every FIFA window to expose our players to high-quality opposition. This is how we grow a team that can compete at the highest level,” she added.Ambrose Rachier secures another term as Gor Mahia chairmanThe Football Kenya Federation (FKF) reiterated its support for the women’s national team, promising to provide more opportunities for international exposure and development.“As preparations continue, the Federation remains committed to enhancing player development, supporting the technical bench, and increasing opportunities for global exposure,” read a statement from FKF.Harambee Starlets promise to make corrections ahead of Ivory Coast rematchOdemba’s remarks come after the Starlets concluded their April FIFA window with two friendly matches against Ivory Coast’s Women’s National Team in Abidjan.Despite both games ending in 2-0 defeats, the coach underlined their value in strengthening squad cohesion and assessing performance ahead of crucial qualifiers.The Harambee Starlets now shift their focus to the final round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Gambia, scheduled for October.A win would see Kenya return to the continental tournament for the first time since their debut in 2016.
