- Harambee Starlets midfielder Corazon Aquino officially withdrew from the squad that is set to take part in the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship on Friday.
- Aquino shared a touching message on her social media platform revealing that she was forced to make the decision because of personal issues.
- Aquino has promised to be available for selection once she resolves the personal issues.
The Kenya national women’s football team, Harambee Starlets, has suffered a huge blow ahead of the 2025 CECAFA Women’s Senior Championship after the withdrawal of reliable midfielder Corazon Aquino.
Aquino, who has been a pivotal player for Harambee Starlets since breaking into the team, announced the decision on Friday afternoon, June 13.
According to Aquino, she was forced to take the difficult step because of personal reasons.
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“I wanted to take a moment to address the information circulating regarding my absence from the national team. It’s important for me to clarify that I have never missed a call-up for my beloved country, Kenya, since I started playing.
While I did miss the recent opportunity, it was due to personal reasons that require my immediate attention,” the statement from Simba Queens midfielder read in part.
Corazon Aquino vows to return stronger
Aquino, who has had stints with the likes of Gaspo Women and Vihiga Queens, further promised to be available for selection immediately she deals with the challenges.
“Please, understand that my love for Kenya remains strong and I will continue to be available to represent our nation once I have resolved my current issues.
Those who already know the issue will understand. Thank you all for always supporting and showing concern for my career. I don’t take it for granted,” she wrote.
Her withdrawal leaves Harambee Starlets short in the midfield since a couple of other experienced players such as Ulinzi Starlets’ wizard Sheril Angachi Andiba who did not receive a call-up.
Corazon Aquino’s withdrawal gives other Harambee Starlets players a chance to shine
With her absence, the task to make the Harambee Starlets midfield work has been left to the likes of Diana Wacera, Lavender Ann Akinyi, Martha Amunyolet and Medina Abubakar.
Fasila Adhiambo, who has been linked with a big money move to Simba Queens, is also expected to fight for a spot in the starting lineup.
Harambee Starlets will kick-off their CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship campaign on Sunday, June 15 against Burundi.
The eagerly anticipated clash is expected to start at 4:00 pm East African Time (EAT) at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam.
The Kenyan side will also play hosts Tanzania, Uganda, and South Sudan in the tournament that is scheduled to end on June 22, 2025.
Harambee Starlets fans will be hoping that the late withdrawal from Aquino will not affect the Beldine Odemba coached charges.
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