Starlets dare to dream as they face world giants Australia in FIFA Series final

Kenya’s Harambee Starlets will tonight walk into Nyayo National Stadium bearing belief, ambition and the weight of a growing women’s football movement as they face Australia’s Matildas in the final of the 2026 FIFA Series.

It is a clash that pits a rising African side against one of the established forces in the women’s game.

Australia is a nine-time FIFA Women’s World Cup participant, packed with global stars and elite-level experience. Kenya, ranked 134th in the world, is still carving its path toward that level, but is embracing the challenge head-on.

Head coach Beldine Odemba has framed the encounter as a necessary step in the Starlets’ evolution rather than a daunting task.

“I wouldn’t say toughest because I’ve never played against them. We’re prepared to play against them, and we’re happy to play against a tough opponent,” Odemba said. “To be a big team, you must play against big teams.”

Kenya booked their place in the final after a commanding 2-0 victory over India. Martha Amunyolet struck inside the second minute to set the tone before Tereza Engesha sealed the win in the second half. The performance was energetic, structured and driven by home support, offering a glimpse of a team steadily gaining confidence.

Captain Mwanalima Adam believes the squad’s mindset will be key against the Matildas.

“The motivation is good, the players are ready, and we are very ready to face the Matildas. For me, Australia is just like any other team. Despite their levels, we believe in ourselves,” she said.

Much attention will inevitably fall on teenage defender Elizabeth Ochaka, who could come up directly against Chelsea striker Sam Kerr, one of the most decorated forwards in the women’s game. Kerr brings vast experience from the World Cup and UEFA Champions League, but Ochaka remains unfazed.

“Personally, I do not fear her. She has two legs just like me,” the 17-year-old said confidently, relishing the opportunity to test herself against the best.

Australia head coach Joe Montemurro has made it clear that his side will approach the final with full seriousness as they continue preparations for the next World Cup cycle.

“We prepare the same for each team,” Montemurro noted. “We have come here with respect, but more importantly, to make sure we play our football and keep our standards very high.”

For Kenya, the match is about more than the trophy. It is about learning, measuring progress and showing that women’s football in the country is ready for bigger stages. According to Odemba, her team is a “sleeping giant”, insisting that nights like this are needed to awaken the players' full potential.

Win, lose or draw, the Starlets see this as a defining chapter in their journey. But as they step onto the pitch under the Nairobi lights, one thing is certain: they are not there merely to participate. They are there to compete.

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