FKF president heartbreakingly captured photo after Starlets' penalty miss in WAFCON qualifier draws nationwide sympathy and support.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Nick Mwendwa found himself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons as a photo of him kneeling in disappointment circulated on social media after the Kenyan women's national team, Harambee Starlets, missed a crucial penalty in their first leg clash against Botswana.
The high-stakes match, a do-or-die encounter for Starlets to qualify for the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), ended in a painful 1-1 draw at Nyayo National Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.
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
Beldin Odemba's coached Starlets had been eager to secure a positive result in the first leg of this crucial two-legged tie, but Botswana proved to be formidable opponents.
The visitors managed to score an essential away goal, thanks to Keitumetse Duthebe's strike, which was later canceled out by Marjolen Nekesa.
In the dying moments of the game, Starlets had a golden opportunity to snatch victory when they were awarded a penalty. However, their hopes were dashed when Violet Nanjala missed the spot-kick, leaving the Kenyan fans in despair.
The heart-wrenching penalty miss sent shockwaves through the stadium, and a photograph of Nick Mwendwa, visibly disheartened, quickly gained prominence on various social media platforms.
Mwendwa was not alone in his disappointment, as Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, who was seated alongside him in the VVIP dias, also appeared to be in disbelief after the penalty was squandered.
Before the match, Nick Mwendwa took a moment to express his gratitude to the government for its unwavering support of the local football scene and, in particular, the national teams.
07:04 - 30.11.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba backs Violet Nanjala despite penalty miss
Harambee Starlets' Violet Nanjala defended after crucial penalty miss in 1-1 draw against Botswana.
He highlighted the growth of women's football in Kenya, expressing optimism about their chances of qualifying for the WAFCON next year.
"The women's game is growing every day; I am so impressed by what we have done so far," Mwendwa stated. "We are making strides every day, and I am optimistic that we will beat Botswana and qualify for the WAFCON next year."
He also emphasized the significance of support beyond financial assistance, citing the government's active involvement and commitment to the development of football in the country.
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.
The stage is now set for the crucial second leg, which will be held in Botswana on Tuesday, 5th December.
Kenya will need either a high-scoring draw or a straight win to secure their place in the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations.
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