Jacob Mulee defends Beldine Odemba after WAFCON exit

Former Harambee Stars head coach Jacob “Ghost” Mulee has defended Beldine Odemba against criticism following the Harambee Starlets' early exit from the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Mulee argued that the coach should not be held responsible for the team's recent poor run.

Mulee noted that Kenya had not participated in the continental tournament for ten years. He suggested that qualifying for the competition should be seen as a sign of progress for Kenyan women's football rather than a failure. He stated that the coach has a specific plan for the squad and understands what the team requires.

The former head coach highlighted that competing at WAFCON provided the players with essential exposure to top-tier African opposition. He believes the experience gained on the international stage is a vital part of the rebuilding process for the national team.

Mulee also pointed to the recent success of the Junior Starlets, who secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, as evidence of development within the country's women's football programme. He suggested that the progress seen at the youth level indicates a positive direction for the future.

These comments arrive while the FKF technical committee reviews Odemba's position. The committee is expected to evaluate her performance after the Starlets completed their WAFCON campaign without a single victory.