Australia’s Matildas secured the FIFA Series Women’s 2026 title after a 2–0 victory over Kenya’s Harambee Starlets at Nyayo National Stadium, where a competitive final showcased both the gap in experience and the growing profile of Kenya as a host of international sporting events.
The match drew strong attendance and capped a tournament that brought together teams from multiple continents, reinforcing Nairobi’s position in the global football calendar.
Sam Kerr opened the scoring in the 24th minute after a low effort inside the box proved difficult for the Kenyan defence to clear, before Clare Wheeler doubled Australia’s advantage in the 53rd minute with a solo run through the backline that ended in a composed finish.
Despite the scoreline, Kenya created several promising chances, with Fasila Omondi striking the post just before halftime following a swift counterattack that had momentarily unsettled the Australian defence.
The Starlets began the match with high intensity, pressing early and forcing turnovers, but struggled to convert possession into clear chances inside the final third.
Australia, ranked among the world’s top sides, gradually imposed control through structured possession and physical dominance in midfield, limiting Kenya’s attacking rhythm as the game progressed.
Goalkeeper errors and missed opportunities proved costly for the hosts, who nonetheless remained competitive in spells, particularly through wide attacking runs that repeatedly tested the Australian defensive line.
Late attempts to reduce the deficit were denied as the Matildas managed the closing stages with composure.
Beyond the result, the tournament has drawn attention to Kenya’s growing capacity to stage international fixtures, with teams from Australia, India, Malawi, and Kenya participating in a FIFA-sanctioned series that brought global visibility to Nairobi’s sporting infrastructure.
The event also contributed to wider tourism activity, with visiting teams, officials, and supporters engaging with local hospitality and travel services during their stay.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano acknowledged the Starlets’ effort and extended congratulations to the Australian side, while also encouraging visiting teams to experience Kenya beyond the football pitch.
“Take time off the pitch, unwind and explore Magical Kenya, Origin of Wonder,” she said in a post following the final.
Kenya will now shift focus to preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, using the FIFA Series as a benchmark for development ahead of future international competitions.
