Kenya’s Harambee Starlets suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Chinese Taipei in their opening match of the 2024 Pink Ladies Cup, currently being held in Turkey.
The match, played on Wednesday at the Emirhan Stadium, saw Kenya struggle to break through against their Asian opponents.
Chinese Taipei took an early lead in the 19th minute, when Lee Yi-wen slotted home from close range, taking advantage of a Zeng Yunya assist after Kenya’s defense failed to clear their lines. Despite the early setback, Coach Beldine Odemba’s side fought back, creating several opportunities in the second half.
Lorna Nyabuto and Fasila Adhiambo both came close to equalizing for Kenya, but their efforts missed the target, leaving the Starlets unable to convert their chances. The team’s improved performance in the second half wasn’t enough to change the outcome, as Chinese Taipei held on for the win.
Kenya will look to bounce back when they face Russia in their second match of the tournament on Saturday, before concluding the round-robin event against the Philippines on October 30.
The four-team Pink Ladies Cup provides a valuable opportunity for Kenya to test new players on the international stage against teams from both Asia and Europe.
Meanwhile, Tanzania and Uganda’s women’s national teams will also be in action later this month. Tanzania will face Morocco and Senegal in international friendlies, while Uganda will take on DR Congo in Kinshasa in a pair of matches.
