Harambee Starlets coach Kanyi on Cosafa: We expect a tough match against Zimbabwe

Harambee Starlet's Cheris Avila (left) and Raissa Feudjio of Indomitable Lioness of Cameroon during Friendly match at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, Oct 22, 2016. [PHOTO: JONAH ONYANGO/STANDARD]

Harambee Starlets coach Richard Kanyi says they are expecting a tough match when they meet holders Zimbabwe in the second semi-final of the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (Cosafa) Women’s Championship on Thursday.

Starlets defeated a stubborn Swaziland 1-0 in their final group match on Monday evening.

Mercy Achieng’ scored the lone goal in the dying minutes of the match to help Kenya register a 100 per cent record in the championship.

Speaking to The Standard Sports after Swaziland match, Kanyi said preparations will be vital for his side ahead of the clash.

“We played a very tactical game against Swaziland but it was marred by poor officiating. I expect a tough match against the host but we are equal to the task,” said Kanyi.

Kanyi, however, made eight changes in the team that played against Swaziland - the only match where Kenya scored a single goal.

The opening match against Mozambique, Kenya won 5-2 and went ahead to post a record 11-0 against Malawi.

With the result, Kenya has the most wins - three in number and has most goals scored of 17 in total.

“The team is playing as a unit and working for each other. Mentally they are composed. Our match against Zimbabwe will be more of a tactical one. Good reparation will be vital since we are playing at their backyard,” said Kanyi.

Zimbabwe qualified to the semi-finals as the best -placed runners-up while Kenya earned a direct qualification by the virtue of finishing top of Group B.

In the first semi-final match, three-time winners South Africa will play against the Shepolopolo of Zambia.

South Africa topped group C while Zambia finished top of Group A. [Rebecca Jebet]