Coach Odemba: President Ruto’s motivation will play a part in our qualification bid

 Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba says the cash incentives by President William Ruto will play an important motivational role for the team as they bid to qualify for the 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Only 90 minutes - the return leg on Tuesday evening- stand between the Kenyans and a place in next year’s WAFCON, set to take place in Morocco.

President William Ruto awarded Starlets a total of Ksh.10 million following their impressive 3–1 victory over The Gambia in the WAFCON qualifier played Friday evening at the Nyayo National Stadium.

The Head of State had earlier in the day handed Ksh. 5 million to the Starlets as motivation and a further Ksh. 5 million for a home win. He however promised Ksh. 1 million to each player should they win and qualify and Ksh. 500,000 each if they pick a draw.

“It was not part of the preparation, but of course, motivation always has a positive impact on the team. Players will always play for something, and they get a promise from 001; they are also looking for it,” Odemba said.

Starlets will play The Gambia in the reverse fixture on Tuesday at Stade Lat Dior in Thies Senegal as Gambia lack FIFA approved stadium, and Odemba feels it’s a huge advantage for them.

“To be a champion, you must have champions in your team, so it is a good inclusion; we have three players who participated in the WAFCON 2016, and it is also a good motivation to the others. They are speaking about the advantages and why we need to qualify. They are also ready to do it for the second time, so it is truly important to have experience in the team,” she added.

A draw of any kind will be enough to send the Beldine Odemba-coached charges to the Africa Cup for the first time in seven years.

The 2026 WAFCON edition will be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3.