Sports

Harambee Starlets defender vows to put mistakes at bay in WAFCON decider against Gambia

Monday 27th October, 2025 08:32 PM| By Luke Oluoch

Harambee Starlets centreback Lorine Ilavonga has promised to work on improving her performance ahead of Tuesday, October 28, decisive WAFCON qualifier return leg against The Gambia.

The composed youngster has been a constant figure in Ulinzi Starlets’ backline and fittingly earned her slot in Beldine Odemba’s national team charges in Wednesday, October 22, 2025, first leg meeting in Kenya.

Ilavonga and Elizabeth Muteshi were among the players handed their first call-up to the Kenya senior women’s national football team for the upcoming two-legged (WAFCON) qualifier against The Gambia.

She attributed her nod to dedication and eagerness to showcase her potential.

Lorine Ilavionga in a training session with Harambee Starlets. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/HarambeeStarlets/photos

“It’s all down to trust and confidence. That was my first time and I showed what I am capable of. I have to thank the coaches for the opportunity,”she added.

The Ulinzi Starlets ace senior debut was, however, not a smooth sail.. She was at centre of a moment of madness that led to Starlets conceding early on after taking one shot too many inside the box before being dispossessed for the opening goal.

First-leg mishap

The Rising Starlets ace, however, shrugged off the blunder to marshal the back line to the crucial win, a performance she hopes the team will replicate.

“For the mistakes I made I promise to make amends and improve in the next game, The morale is high in camp and the players are ready to complete the job and qualify for AFCON,”she added.

The Harambee Starlets and Gambia players during their match at Nyayo Stadium: PHOTO/facebook.com/williamsamoei

During the first leg meeting, Mwanahalima Adan struck Kenya level after Ilavonga’s mishap had earned Gambia the lead through their skipper, Fatou Chan.

Shalyne Opisa and Fasila Adhiambo strike, assuring Kenya an advantage in the clash, heading to the second meeting.

WAFCON History

Kenya now only needs a draw to qualify for the continental games. A feat that will see Odemba snap a nine-year wait for qualifying for the championship.

Kenya’s last appearance at the women’s continental championships came in 2016 under coach David Ouma.

The Starlets exited the competitions at the group stages that comprised Ghana, Mali and Nigeria.

The return leg on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, will be staged at Stade Lat Dior in Thiès.