Ashley Euphrasier Shilwatso Earns First Harambee Starlets Call-Up Ahead of WAFCON 2026

Kenyan football fans have a new reason to celebrate as Kayole Starlets midfielder Ashley Euphrasier Shilwatso has earned her maiden call-up to the Harambee Starlets ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Gambia. This step marks a major milestone in Shilwatso’s career and embodies the growing depth of Kenya’s women football talent.

Key Takeaways:

• Ashley Euphrasier Shilwatso called up to Harambee Starlets for WAFCON 2026 qualifiers.
• Shilwatso is a standout performer in the FKF Women Premier League with Kayole Starlets.
• Kenya will host Gambia in the first leg on October 24, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium.
• The return leg is scheduled for October 28, 2025, in Senegal.
• Provisional Harambee Starlets squad features a blend of experienced seniors and promising youth.

Shilwatso’s Rise to National Selection

Ashley Euphrasier Shilwatso has made headlines in the current 2025/26 FKF Women Premier League season by netting three goals in just two appearances with Kayole Starlets. Her midfield dynamism and attacking threat captured the attention of Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba, who included her in the provisional 38-player squad announced in early October.

Shilwatso’s call-up is testimony to the success of Kenya’s women’s league in nurturing new talent. Her debut with the national team reflects coach Odemba’s vision to mix youth and experience to maximize Kenya’s chances at WAFCON qualification.

Road to WAFCON Qualifiers

Kenya’s preliminary squad has been preparing intensively for the crucial two-legged qualifier against Gambia. The first leg takes place at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium on October 24, 2025, with the return leg in Senegal’s Stade Lat Dior, Thiès on October 28.

Coach Odemba has emphasized strategic selection, balancing seasoned stars like Mercy Akoth and newcomer Shilwatso. The upcoming matches mark Kenya’s bid to return to the WAFCON tournament, after debuting in 2016.

Provisional Harambee Starlets Squad Highlight

Position	Notable Players	Clubs
Goalkeepers	Mercy Akoth, Annedy Kundu	Vihiga Queens, Kenya Police
Defenders	Dorcas Neema, Lavyne Ochola	Kibera Soccer Women, Kayole Starlets
Midfielders	Ashley Euphrasier Shilwatso, Lydia Akoth	Kayole Starlets, Yanga Princess
Forwards	Shirleen Opisa, Charity Midewa	Amus College, PalmHill Sports

Fan and Community Reactions

The call-up of Ashley Euphrasier Shilwatso ignited excitement among fans, particularly those who follow local leagues keen on recognition for homegrown talent. Football analysts note Shilwatso’s ability to hold midfield with creativity and scoring capability as a key asset to Harambee Starlets’ qualification push.

Looking Forward

The Harambee Starlets are set to put their best foot forward against Gambia, hoping to progress to the 2026 WAFCON tournament. With fresh talent like Ashley joining the ranks, Kenyan women’s football continues on an upward trajectory, promising thrilling matches and regional dominance ahead.

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