The Junior Starlets have set their sights on a potential final-round clash against Cameroon in the U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. Having secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Uganda in the first leg, Kenya’s young talents are inching closer to securing a second consecutive appearance at the prestigious tournament.
With the return leg set to take place in Nairobi on March 16, confidence is high within the squad. The winner of the final qualification round will claim one of Africa’s three slots for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.
After arriving back home to a warm reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the team, led by midfielder Lindey Weey Atieno, expressed gratitude for the support received. Atieno emphasized the team’s readiness to face any opponent in their quest to make history.
“The game was not easy, but the coach motivated us, and we promised not to disappoint her. We are ready to win, whether it’s Cameroon or any other team,” Atieno remarked.
Kenyan football teams have historically struggled against Cameroon, a powerhouse in African women’s football. However, the Junior Starlets appear undeterred, eager to prove themselves on the big stage.
Head coach Mildred Cheche praised her team’s resilience, particularly highlighting Edinah Nasipwondi’s experience and insight into Ugandan football. She also lauded young striker Brenda Achieng’, who was recently promoted from the U15 team, as a promising future star.
The team, captained by Halima Imbachi, is determined to build on their past success. Their qualification for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic was a historic milestone, as no other Kenyan team, male or female, had ever reached such a level before.
At the 2024 edition of the tournament, the Junior Starlets achieved another remarkable feat, securing their first-ever World Cup victory. They defeated Mexico 2-1 on October 24, 2024, at the Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez.
In that match, Valerie Nekesa gave Kenya an early lead, finishing off a well-orchestrated move initiated by Joan Ogola. Lornah Faith then doubled the advantage with a clinical strike, making Alexa Soto’s penalty goal a mere consolation for the Mexican side.
Now, with another shot at global recognition on the horizon, the Junior Starlets remain focused on finishing the job against Uganda before preparing for a possible showdown with Cameroon. Their determination and rising talent continue to inspire hope for the future of Kenyan women’s football.
