Kenya Passes Major Hosting Test as FIFA Women’s Series Ends in Success

Kenya’s hosting of the just concluded FIFA Women’s Series 2026 marked a major milestone for women’s football in the country, as the Harambee Starlets impressed on home soil against quality international opposition at Nyayo National Stadium.

The four-nation tournament featured Kenya, Australia, India and Malawi, giving local fans a rare chance to witness elite women’s international football in Nairobi.

The Harambee Starlets began their campaign in style with a convincing 2-0 victory over India. Goals from Martha Amunyolet and Terry Engesha secured Kenya’s place in the final and raised hopes of a historic home triumph. The Starlets looked organized, energetic and fearless, delighting supporters who turned up in large numbers.

In the final, Kenya faced tournament favourites Australia’s Matildas, one of the strongest women’s teams in world football. Despite a spirited display from the hosts, Australia’s quality proved decisive as they claimed a 2-0 victory to lift the Nairobi edition title. Goals from Sam Kerr and Clare Wheeler sealed the win for the visitors.

Although Kenya fell short in the final, the tournament was a huge success for the Starlets. Finishing runners-up against higher-ranked opponents showed the progress of women’s football in the country. The team displayed resilience, tactical discipline and growing confidence on the international stage.

Beyond results, the tournament also proved that Kenya can successfully host major international football events. The atmosphere at Nyayo Stadium, strong fan turnout and smooth organization offered a glimpse of the potential the country has in staging continental and global competitions.

With Kenya set to co-host the upcoming AFCON 2027 alongside Uganda and Tanzania, the successful FIFA Women’s Series served as a timely test event. It showed the nation’s readiness in areas such as match organization, fan management, hospitality and security. It also sent a strong message that Kenya is prepared to welcome Africa and the world for bigger football occasions in the near future.

For Harambee Starlets, this FIFA Women’s Series should be seen not as the end, but the beginning. With more investment, regular competition and continued support, Kenya’s women can dream bigger than ever before.