Harambee Starlets’ WAFCON Dreams Crushed Once More in Penalty Heartbreak

Kenya’s Harambee Starlets faced another setback in their quest for a second Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualification as they faltered in converting a crucial penalty. Their dream came to an end on Tuesday evening with a 1-0 defeat against Botswana in Gaborone.

The resilient Kenyan team succumbed to a 2-0 aggregate loss to the Zebras. In a closely contested encounter, Cynthia Shilwatso had a chance to be the savior for Starlets when she stepped up for a penalty in the 53rd minute.

Unfortunately, her effort was thwarted by Botswana’s goalkeeper, Maitumelo Bosija, who made a remarkable full-length save. This missed opportunity proved costly for Starlets as Botswana capitalized and secured a goal in the 61st minute, ultimately deciding the fate of the match.

Coach Beldine Odemba’s team couldn’t recover from the setback, and the loss dashed their hopes of advancing to the biennial continental football showpiece.

Keitunetse Dithede, the tormentor for Starlets, struck again with a sensational goal, reminiscent of her performance in Nairobi that secured Botswana a crucial draw.

Needing a solitary goal to make history and secure a berth in the tournament, Harambee Starlets fell short, condemning them to another season without participation.

Their last appearance in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was in 2016 in Ghana. The defeat marks a gloomy end to their campaign despite their recent draw at Nyayo Stadium. Having arrived in Botswana on Sunday and familiarized themselves with the local grounds, the Starlets couldn’t replicate their past success against Botswana.

The two teams, having met thrice in history, had their latest clash at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games qualifying tournament in 2015, where Kenya advanced on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate result.