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Kenya forward Esse Akida secures Israel move

Kenya at the 2016 Women African Cup of Nations GuySuffo/BackpagePix

Harambee Starlets forward Esse Akida had joined Israeli Women's Premier League side Hapoel Morasha Ramat HaSharon FC on a two-year deal.

The pacy attacker earned the deal after impressing during a two-week trial, and becomes the first Kenyan female footballer to play in the Israeli top tier.

"I'm super delighted to have joined the team, it's a dream come true," a delighted Akida told KweséESPN.

"It's my first professional stint, and for me it's something that I have been working on since I started my career.

"I want to thank my family, fans and, above all, God, who has made this a reality."

The Starlets forward is already looking forward to performing for her new team, and is adamant that she will adapt quickly to her new environment.

"I can't wait to get started," she continued. "This is a new environment and I hope to adapt quickly.

"I believe in my abilities and I know that I will perform well."

The 24-year old Akida started out at Kilifi-based NGO Goalposts (MTG).

She later moved to National Youth Talent Academy (NYTA), before moving to Kemu Queens and later Spedag.

In August 2018, she ditched Spedag and moved to Thika Queens, but barely six weeks later, left for trials in Israel.

Akida made her debut for the national team in 2012, and has since scored 15 international goals in 36 appearances.

She was part of the Kenyan team at the 2016 Africa Women Cup of Nations in Cameroon.