Harambee Starlets earned a 1–1 draw against Algeria in their second international friendly game against the same opponent at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida, Algeria, on Sunday, November 30.
Starlets entered the rematch determined to overturn the outcome of the first game, where they suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat in stoppage time on Tuesday.
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This double-header marked the final international window of 2025 as both nations fine-tune their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), a tournament Kenya will be gracing for only the second time in history.
The match got off to an unusual start when Algeria was forced into a goalkeeper change just two minutes in. Starlets settled quickly, with Martha Amunyolete sending an early freekick over the bar before Mwanalima ‘Dogo’ Adam came agonisingly close after a slick passing move, her effort drifting just wide.
In a cagey first half, Starlets looked the better side in possession, moving the ball with patience and control. A 38th-minute booking for Madalina Airin handed the Desert Foxes a dangerous set-piece opportunity, but the Starlets’ defence held its shape superbly.
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Starlets Head coach Beldine Odemba made a key adjustment at halftime, bringing on Sheryl Muteshi for Elizabeth Wambui, an inspired substitution that added speed, organisation and clarity to Kenya’s midfield play.
The improvement paid off in the 65th minute. Dogo, the starlet’s standout across both friendlies, punished a defensive miscue with a composed finish to put the Starlets ahead.
Kenya continued to dictate tempo and came inches from doubling their lead in the 80th minute when Ruth Ingosi produced an audacious backheel that beat the goalkeeper but was cleared off the line by a retreating defender.
But with victory in sight, Algeria struck late. Ines Belloumou levelled in the 93rd minute, capitalising on one of the hosts’ few sustained attacks of the half to deny the Starlets what would have been a confidence-boosting away win.
Despite the late setback, the 1–1 draw reflects significant progress for Kenya. Dogo’s electric form, improved team structure and rising confidence offer real positives as the Starlets build toward next year’s WAFCON campaign.
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