Petra optimistic Starlets will prevail in tough Awcon group

Football Kenya Federation Vice-President, Doris Petra, is optimistic Harambee Starlets will give a good account of themselves at the 2016 Africa Women Cup of Nations (Awcon) finals in Cameroon despite landing a tough group.

Speaking to Citizen Digital following the announcement of the draw that saw Kenya handed the task of taking on champions, Super Falcons of Nigeria, Ghana and Mali in Group B, Petra added the girls would be in good stead to take on the challenge in November.

“We are in a very challenging group, but you cannot underrate any of the teams participating. Nigeria has always been in the World Cup, they have a very good team.

“Our girls are aware of the draw and are psychologically preparing for the teams. We just need to win one match, draw one and reach the semi finals. That will be a good mark although we can’t limit ourselves for anything,” offered Petra.

She however warned Starlets must not concentrate on Nigeria in preparations, noting other opponents in the group could offer a tougher challenge than expected.

“I have not watched Mali, I don’t know much about them, but Ghana is as good as Nigeria. We want to be very positive ahead of the tournament because we qualified by competing, this was not an automatic ticket,” she added.

Petra congratulated the team for qualifying to the finals of the Cecafa women’s tournament in Uganda at the expense of Ethiopia saying Sunday’s opponents were the only major threat in the regional event.

“Ethiopia is one of the strongest sides in the region. Actually we were to play them before the competition but they withdrew due to lack of finances. I believe the good result against them is a big statement of the team’s intention not only in Cecafa but also in Awcon.

“We have confidence with the team and as a federation we will do as much as possible keep them playing in competitive matches, at least two or three friendlies even outside Africa before going to Awcon,” the FKF boss said.

“We are planning to have friendlies with African teams and those from beyond,” revealed the former FKF Leagues and Competitions Coordinator.

She further added the ladies will have a short break after Cecafa before resuming camp.

During the draw conducted on Sunday, Cameroonian Association of Universities paid homage to long-serving CAF President, Issa Hayatou upon his new role as LOC Honorary Member.

The opening game will take place between Cameroon and Egypt at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo, while Nigeria will play their first game against Mali at the Stade Municipal de Limbe.

Nigeria, under the tutelage of Florence Omagbemi will be gunning for a record eighth African women title when the competition starts, while South Africa’s Banyana Banyana are making their 11th appearance in the tournament.