As a standout performer in the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Slavia Prague, 24-year-old striker Marjolene Nekesa is eager to replicate her stellar form for the national team, Harambee Starlets, in their quest for a spot in next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Having missed the second-round victory over Cameroon due to injury, Nekesa has fully recovered and rejoined the team in camp in Nairobi. Expressing her enthusiasm, she said, “I am delighted to have joined the rest of the team. The camp has been great, and the mood is amazing. All players and coaches are ready to face Botswana.”
Assuring fans of her commitment, Nekesa added, “My message to the fans is that I won’t disappoint them. I will do my best to give the team the results that are needed.”
Nekesa has established herself as a key figure for Slavia in the Czech Republic, making significant contributions in both local competitions and the prestigious Champions League.
After a season with Belarussian side Minsk, she moved to the Czech Republic and previously spent four years in the United States playing college football while pursuing her studies.
With notable achievements at the club level, Nekesa now aims to contribute similarly to the national team’s pursuit of a second-ever qualification to the WAFCON, as Starlets had previously qualified in 2018.
Reflecting on the opportunity, she emphasized, “Qualifying for the WAFCON is a great opportunity for Kenya. It is a chance for coaches and players to gain exposure and advance their careers.”
The team has received a boost with the arrival of defender Phoebe Owiti, who plays for a club in India. Morocco-based striker Violet Nekesa also joined the team’s camp on Monday.
Addressing the team’s readiness, Owiti stated, “I want to ask the fans to come out in large numbers to give us support, and we will not let them down. We are ready, we have trained well, and the focus is high.”
Botswana has already arrived in the country and had a light training session on Monday evening. Their official training at the Nyayo National Stadium is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.”
