- Harambee Starlets suffered a 0-1 defeat to Tanzania in their final match of the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship, held at the Azam Sports Complex on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
- Defensive lapses and lack of midfield control proved costly, as the team conceded the only goal of the match via an own goal by Enez Mango following a miscommunication.
- Harambee Starlets had won all three of their previous matches on their road to the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship final.
The Kenya national senior women’s team Harambee Starlets, narrowly lost 0-1 to hosts Tanzania in the 2025 CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship final, held at the Azam Complex on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
Despite a spirited performance, coach Beldine Odemba’s side struggled to convert their opportunities, ultimately conceding the lone goal through an unfortunate own goal by Enez Mango.
The mishap followed a defensive mix-up between Mango and goalkeeper Lilian Awuor after Tanzania’s Clara Luvanga unleashed a powerful strike.
Kenya had enjoyed a strong run throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten en route to the final.
They convincingly defeated Burundi 3-0 in the opener, humbled defending champions Uganda 4-0, and demolished South Sudan with another 4-0 scoreline.
However, in the final, Kenya’s midfield faltered under pressure, failing to create meaningful chances while Tanzania dominated key moments and controlled the rhythm of the game.
As Kenya now shifts focus to the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Gambia in August, SportPesa Blog evaluates the players’ performances in the CECAFA 2025 final
Harambee Starlets player ratings – CECAFA 2025 final
Lilian Awuor (7/10)
Produced three vital saves in the first half to keep Harambee Starlets in contention. However, a lapse in communication with defender Enez Mango led to the own goal that decided the match. Redeemed herself with other crucial interventions afterward.
Enez Mango (4/10)
Solid in the left defensive channel initially but grew increasingly vulnerable, allowing Tanzania’s attackers to exploit her flank.
Her own goal,a result of poor coordination with Awour proved costly.
Dorcas Shikobe (6/10)
Struggled in the first half, uncharacteristically allowing attackers through. She regained composure in the second period but lacked the commanding presence shown in previous matches.
Ruth Ingosi (6/10)
Showed glimpses of solidity in the holding role, but often delayed in dropping back during transitional play. Improved marginally in the second half.
Vivian Nasaka (7/10)
Defended well against Asha Omary and Opa Clement, though was occasionally caught off position by second balls. Should have done more to prevent the goal originating from her win g.
Lavender Ann Akinyi (5/10)
Had a quiet first half as Tanzania overran the midfield. Showed promise after the break with several intelligent crosses, but lacked support in the final third.
Diana Wacera (7/10)
Arguably Kenya’s most consistent midfielder on the day. Shielded the defence well and won multiple second balls, limiting Luvanga’s impact.
Fasila Odhiambo (6/10)
Lacked presence early on, allowing Tanzania too much space. Gained momentum in the second half with energetic runs and better link-up play.
Martha Amunyolet (5/10)
Anonymous throughout most of the match. Rarely received the ball in threatening areas due to Tanzania’s disciplined backline.
Violet Nanjala (5/10)
Struggled to make an impression. Her deliveries lacked quality, and she had minimal impact before being subbed off.
Tumaini Waliaula (5/10)
Led the line but was isolated for long stretches. The absence of quality service limited her influence, and she failed to make a mark before being withdrawn in the 75th minute.
Faith Mboya (7/10)
Brought energy in her brief cameo and tried to spark life down the right wing. However, her crosses were well dealt with by the Tanzanian defence.
Tanzania vs Kenya Line-ups
Starting XI – Kenya (Harambee Starlets)
Lilian Awuor (GK), Ruth Ingosi, Dorcas Shikobe (C), Enez Mango, Lavender Ann Akinyi, Vivian Nasaka, Diana Wacera, Fasila Odhiambo, Martha Amunyolet, Violet Nanjala, Tumaini Waliaula
Substitutes: Annedy Kundu (GK), Emily Morang’a, Elizabeth Ochaka, Swau M. Nanjala, Alice Mideri, Tabitha Amoit, Faith Mboya, Janet Mumo, Medina Abubakar
Starting XI – Tanzania (Twiga Stars)
Najiat Idrisa (GK), Asha Omary, Anastazia Katunzi, Ester Maseke, Videth Mwamakamba, Donisia Minja, Janeth Christopher, Diana Lucas, Opa Clement, Clara Luvanga, Stumai Abdallah
Substitutes: Asha Marsho, Winfrida Gerald, Mamura Kahui, Christer John, Luya Maxmillian, Jamila Rajabu, Asha Juma, Fatuma Issa, Hasnath Ubamba
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