Kenya’s women have endured a difficult few days which started with a delayed arrival to the tournament, but got off to a good start on the pitch by beating Zambia 3-0.

Despite arriving in Accra yesterday (Tuesday), the side were not there in time to play their match against hosts Ghana, who were awarded a 5-0 walkover win.

Kenya were originally due to play Zambia on Monday (January 17) but this match was rescheduled, and Kenya took full advantage.

Aurelia Opondo, Flavia Mutiva and Grace Bwire netted for Kenya as they got off to a winning start in Pool B.

Kenya now move into third place in the pool with three points, just behind Ghana and Nigeria, who both have four.

The day’s only other game came in men’s Pool A, with South Africa overcoming Kenya 2-1.

All three goals came in a ten-minute spell with a brace from Nqobile Ntuli on 33 and 37 minutes putting South Africa into a 2-0 lead.

Constant Wakhura pulled a goal back three minutes later for Kenya but South Africa were able to hold on for the victory.

South Africa now top the pool with six points, with Kenya in second place on three and Namibia bottom with zero.

Pool action is scheduled to continue tomorrow, with four women’s and two men’s fixtures set to take place.