Harambee Starlets’ Lilian Awuor saved two penalties as Kenya defeated Tunisia 1-0 in the second leg of the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Tunis.
After a goalless draw in the first leg on Kenyan soil, the Starlets needed at least a draw to advance to the final round of the qualification stage.
Chinese-based Terezah Engesha, who had remained unused in the home match at Ulinzi Stadium, was included in the starting eleven and did not disappoint. She capitalized on a failed build-up, made a decoy run to receive the ball, and scored with a low shot just three minutes into the game.
This early goal gave the Starlets the confidence they needed, especially playing away from home.
Just a minute before halftime, Tunisia executed a long pass behind the Kenyan defenders, and their striker sprinted to meet it. Janet Mumo tackled her from behind, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Mumo, in disbelief, held her hands on her head as Tunisia’s striker took the spot kick. However, the composed Lillian Awuor dived to her right and saved the penalty, allowing Kenya to head into the break with the lead.
After halftime, Coach Beldine Odemba’s team adopted a more defensive strategy, relying on long passes, which proved to be disadvantageous. Tunisia played calmly but lacked creativity in front of goal, and their long-range shots failed to challenge Lillian.
In the 77th minute, Lillian Awuor was called on to save another penalty after she fouled a Tunisian striker in the box. Once again, she dived to her right and saved the spot kick.
The Kenyan team celebrated on the pitch after the final whistle as a 0-0 draw at home and a 1-0 win away secured their place in the next knockout round against Gambia. A victory in that match would qualify them for the WAFCON.
