Harambee Starlets seek WAFCON victory in rematch against Botswana with a focus on key strategies for success
Harambee Starlets are fired up for the rematch of the final round of 2024 Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against hosts Botswana.
After a nail-biting 1-1 draw in Nairobi last Wednesday, Kenya is on the brink of securing a place in the continental showpiece.
16:50 - 29.11.2023
FOOTBALL Wasteful Harambee Starlets fail to capitalize on home advantage against Botswana
Harambee Starlets and Botswana draw in 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations qualifier played at Nyayo National Stadium
To ensure victory and seal their WAFCON ticket, the Harambee Starlets must focus on five crucial strategies.
1. Tighten it up in the back
One glaring weakness in the Harambee Starlets' recent performances has been their defensive lapses.
Against Cameroon, they allowed their opponents too much room to maneuver in the box, and Botswana capitalized on similar opportunities in their encounter.
07:30 - 04.12.2023
Under pressure Beldine Odemba rallies Harambee Starlets ahead of make or break Botswana return leg
Starlets jetted out of the country Sunday morning, fired up for the rematch set for Tuesday in Gaborone, and coach Odemba has sent them an inspiring message.
To secure their WAFCON ticket, Kenya must prioritize tightening their defense, ensuring better marking and reducing opponents' chances to shoot freely.
2. Don't expose the back line
While the spotlight has been on the Starlets' defense, midfielders and forwards play a pivotal role in maintaining a solid defensive structure.
Careless possession in midfield has often led to turnovers and put pressure on the defense.
18:40 - 30.11.2023
FOOTBALL Botswana captain reveals clever tactics that tamed Harambee Starlets in WAFCON qualifier
Bosija Sedilame's heroic save preserved Botswana's draw against Harambee Starlets in 2024 WAFCON qualifier on Wednesday.
Against a counter-attacking Botswana side, Kenya must improve ball retention, making sure they do not expose their vulnerable back line to unnecessary risks.
3. Midfielders must increase forward runs
One of the challenges faced by the Harambee Starlets is breaking through compact defenses. This could be attributed to midfielders not pushing forward often enough.
Players like Elizabeth Wambui and Mwanahalima Adam must take the initiative to make runs beyond the attackers, creating additional scoring opportunities and enhancing the team's attacking prowess.
08:35 - 30.11.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Starlets' draw leaves fans frowning, but Sherly Angachi sends tongues wagging
Sheryl Angachi's buzzworthy hairstyle captivates fans despite Harambee Starlets' frustrating 1-1 draw in the Women Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
4. Make quicker and better decisions on the ball
In the previous game against Botswana, the Harambee Starlets struggled with ball control and decision-making.
Cynthia Shilwatso, in particular, missed several scoring chances due to indecision.
To seal their WAFCON ticket, Kenya's players must improve their ball control and decisiveness, ensuring that they make the right moves promptly when opportunities arise.
21:00 - 30.11.2023
FOOTBALL Nick Mwendwa's emotional moment captured after Starlets' penalty miss in WAFCON qualifier
FKF president heartbreakingly captured photo after Starlets' penalty miss in WAFCON qualifier draws nationwide sympathy and support.
5. Play more as a team
One moment that highlighted the importance of teamwork was when Majoline Nekesa missed a chance to pass to an open Shilwatso.
Instead, she opted to shoot. This lack of cohesion in the attack hindered the Harambee Starlets' ability to conquer the Botswana defense.
It is mperative that the team plays together, with forwards and midfielders working in harmony to unlock their opponents' defense.
17:16 - 26.09.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Starlets beat Cameroon on penalties to book second round date with Botswana
Harambee Starlets advanced to the next round of the 2024 AWCON after defeating Cameroon in a penalty shootout at Nyayo National Stadium.
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