Kenya’s Harambee Starlets to face Ivory Coast in build up for WAFCON qualifiers

Photo Credit - Football Kenya Federation (FKF) media.

Kenya national women's team Harambee Starlets are gearing up for two high-stakes international friendlies against Ivory Coast’s Women’s National Team during the April FIFA window in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

According to a statement from Football Kenya Federation (FKF), with Ivory Coast ranked 71st in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, these matches will be crucial in refining the Starlets’ form as they prepare for their decisive second-round clash against Gambia in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.

Fresh off a hard-fought 1-0 aggregate victory over Tunisia in the first round, Harambee Starlets are now eyeing a historic return to WAFCON.

Their last appearance in the continental showpiece was in 2016, and with just one more hurdle against Gambia in October, Kenya is determined to secure a spot at the 2026 tournament.

“The friendlies against Ivory Coast will be a crucial test for the squad, allowing them to fine-tune their tactics, build cohesion, and gain valuable experience against a formidable opponent.

“As the countdown to the qualifiers continues, the Harambee Starlets remain focused on rewriting history and making it to the biggest stage in Africa,” concluded the statement.

Match Schedule:

• Friday, April 4, 2025 – 10:00 PM EAT, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

• Tuesday, April 8, 2025 – 10:00 PM EAT, Abidjan, Ivory Coast