- Harambee Starlets defeated Burundi 0-3 in their opening match of the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship on Sunday, June 15, at the Azam Complex in Tanzania.
- Martha Amunyolet netted a brace before Faith Mboya sealed the win with a third goal in the second half.
- The Starlets will now have a rest day to fine-tune their game before facing arch-rivals Uganda on Tuesday, June 17, at 7:00 PM EAT in their second group fixture.
Vihiga Queens midfielder Martha Amunyolet struck twice to guide Harambee Starlets to a strong 0-3 win over Burundi in their 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship opener on Sunday at the Azam Complex, Tanzania.
Faith Mboya, introduced as a substitute, sealed the triumph with a clinical strike in the dying minutes, adding a third goal to Kenya’s tally.
Despite Burundi having clinched a win in their opening match against Uganda, the Starlets entered the contest as firm favorites.
They started on the front foot, dictating play from the outset. Just two minutes into the match, Amunyolet drew first blood with a well-executed volley, capitalizing on a precise assist from goalkeeper Annedy Kundu.
Amunyolet doubled the lead shortly after, converting a sublime cross from captain Vivian Nasaka.
Positioned perfectly on the left wing, she outmaneuvered Burundi’s goalkeeper Faida Habimana, calmly slotting home her second of the evening.
Coach Beldine Odemba’s charges maintained their dominance, launching a series of attacking moves.
Though they came close on three more occasions, Habimana put in a good performance between the posts, denying Kenya further goals in the first half.
In the 38th minute, Amunyolet consistently a threat on the right flank delivered a crisp cross into the box, narrowly missing Tumaini Waliaula, whose shot was blocked by Burundi’s resilient defense.
Moments before halftime, Habimana made another stunning double save.
First, she thwarted Emily Moranga’s effort from a Violet Nanjala cross, then recovered quickly to deny Tumaini’s rebound attempt, preserving Burundi’s hopes heading into the break.
ALSO READ: NBE head coach hails Janet Moraa as future European star
Despite her heroics, Habimana could noot prevent the two early goals.
Meanwhile, Burundi failed to register any meaningful threat against Kenya’s defense in the first half. The Starlets, though in control, were left ruing several missed chances that could have extended their lead.
The second half saw a spirited resurgence from Burundi, who dominated the first 15 minutes with improved ball possession and attacking intent. However, Kenya’s backline stood resolute, absorbing the pressure and neutralizing every threat.
Harambee Starlets had a golden opportunity in the 79th minute to seal the win with a third goal, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
As the clock wound down, Kenya reasserted their supremacy, dictating play before Mboya put the result beyond doubt with a composed finish from outside the box, securing a commanding 0-3 victory.
The Starlets will now have a rest day to fine-tune their game before facing arch-rivals Uganda on Tuesday, June 17, at 7:00 PM EAT in their second group fixture.
Harambee Starlets starting XI
Annedy Kundu (GK), Elizabeth Ochaka, Tabitha Amoit, Alice Mideri, Medina Abubakar, Vivian Nasaka (C), Diana Wacera, Martha Amunyolet, Emily Moranga, Tumaini Waliaula, Violet Nanjala
Substitutes
Lilian Awuor, Janet Mumo, Ruth Ingosi, Dorcas Shikobe, Enez Mango, Fasila Adhiambo, Lavender Ann, Akinyi Swaum Nanjala, Faith Mboya
Burundi starting XI
Faida Habimana, Gloris Gakiza, Peace Olga, Aniella Uwimana, Kanyamuneza Erica, Rukiyabizimana Angelique, Keza Adolphine, Salum Esperance, Habonimana Evelyn, Akimana Annonciatte, Nshirimimana
Substitutes
Mediatrice Nsabimana, Zenashaban Estella, Gakima Dorine, Irankunda Channy, Nsabiyumva Aline, Hakizimana Grace, Niyonkuru
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over 418 Million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
