Harambee Starlets Lose 2-1 To Tanzania in Cecafa Women Championship Final

Kenya national women football team Harambee Starlets failed to continue with their impressive run in the just concluded Cecafa Women Championship, losing 2-1 to Tanzania in the final held this afternoon at the Njeru Technical Centre in Jinja, Uganda.

The Kilimanjaro Queens opened the score against the David Ouma-coached side in the 28th minute through Mwanahamisi Omari. The prolific striker doubled the lead just two minutes to half time, beating Kenyan custodian Vivian Akinyi with a brilliant effort from a free-kick. Starlets showed vigor by the start of the second half and their efforts were repaid in the 48th minute through Christine Nafula.

With Tanzania leading 2-1, David Ouma made his first substitution in the 65th minute, replacing the goal scorer with forward Doreen Nabwire. The Tanzanian backline managed to keep the deadly trio of Esse Akida, Neddy Atieno and Mary Kinuthia at bay till the final whistle.

However, it was a fantastic journey to the final for the Kenyan girls, managing to keep a 100 per cent record through the group stage and the semi-final against a lethal Ethiopian side.

Starlets starting line-up against Queens: Vivian Akinyi (GK, 18), Ann Aluoch, Wendy-Ann Achieng, Irene Ogutu, Dorcas Shikobe, Carolyne Anyango, Esse Akida, Corazone Odhiambo, Neddy Atieno, Christine Nafula, Mary Kinuthia (Captain).