Harambee Starlets concede late as Algeria snatch a draw
By Kenneth Mwenda, November 30, 2025Kenya’s Harambee Starlets were denied a morale-boosting win after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser in a 1–1 draw with Algeria at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The friendly was the second meeting between the two sides in five days, forming part of the final international window of 2025 as both teams continue their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Kenya had lost the first match 2–1 on Tuesday, after conceding a late goal.
The Starlets approached the rematch with intent, determined to respond after the midweek setback. Both teams started cautiously, but Kenya created the clearest chances in the opening half.
In the 36th minute, Dogo found herself with a good opening inside the box but failed to convert. Moments later, Airin Madalina received a yellow card after mistiming a challenge as Algeria pushed forward.
The match entered the break goalless, with Kenya looking more organised defensively and sharper in transition than in the first fixture. Head coach Beldine Odemba had earlier stressed that the team had worked on correcting the errors that cost them the opening match, and the improvement showed.
Kenya made their pressure count in the 65th minute. Mwanahalima ‘Dogo’ Adam scored the opener with a composed finish, giving the visitors a deserved 1–0 lead. It was a reward for the persistence and discipline the Starlets displayed through the first hour of play. The bench reacted with energy, urging the team to stay compact and manage the game.
Algeria ramp up pressure
Algeria, however, responded by throwing more bodies forward. The hosts enjoyed a strong spell of possession as they searched for a leveller. Despite this, Kenya continued to create chances. In the 80th minute, Ruth Ingosi produced a clever back-heel inside the Algerian box, but an Algerian defender cleared the ball off the goal line.
Odemba introduced fresh legs late in the game to maintain control, with Sheril Muyera and Emily Morang’a coming on for Madalina and Enez Mango.
Earlier, Valerie Nekesa, who made her senior debut in the first encounter, had replaced Medina Abubakar. The youngster had spoken confidently before the match, promising to make an impact whenever given a chance. Her energy in midfield helped Kenya absorb waves of Algerian pressure.
Just as Kenya appeared set to secure a hard-earned win, Algeria struck in the 93rd minute. A defensive lapse allowed the hosts to find space in the box, and they punished the Starlets with a late equaliser.