Kenya in contention to secure second title
2011 Women’s Homeless World Cup champions Kenya secured a deserved victory over Ivory Coast on Day 4 of the competition to continue their quest for a second title.
A combination of lightning quick attacks, fantastic finishing and some fine goalkeeping saw Kenya - the hosts of the 2025 African Women’s Cup - come away with their fifth of the tournament with a 9-1 victory.
Kenya came flying out the blocks, scoring with their first attack of the game, before Ivory Coast tested the Kenya keeper from distance. A fantastic piece of skill gave an Ivory Coast player time to rifle home an equaliser, before a smart finish on the half volley off a lofted pass saw Kenya regain the lead. A right foot strike gave Kenya their third, before a good team move put them 4-1 up. Two shots from distance from Ivory Coast stung the palms of the Kenya keeper before Kenya’s fifth came via the penalty spot.
Into the second half, Kenya really turned things up a gear, stretching Ivory Coast from one side of the pitch to another with some great passing. Kenya’s sixth came from another penalty before a point-blank save from the Kenya keeper prevented Ivory Coast’s second of the game. A strike from distance fizzed by the Ivory Coast goalkeeper for Kenya’s seventh, with their eighth and ninth goals coming within the next 20 seconds thanks to a quick break and a shot off a rebound.
In search of their 10th goal, Kenya were denied twice by the bar and a fine save from the Ivory Coast keeper at the end.
Kenya coach Everlyne Ochieng said:
“We had a plan to score quick goals and we did. Maintaining our shape, having possession and keeping composure were our key components to win the match. The players followed the instructions given and that’s why they won the match.
“I’m impressed with their performances. I expected that. Whatever happens, happens. It’s all about the players. When they get onto the pitch they have a goal and they have to follow instructions. We can win the competition. We are in contention. We are excited. It’s a journey and we are focused on reaching the final.”
Words by Craig Williams | Photos by John Anderson