• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 hrs ago

Junior Starlets confident ahead of World Cup qualifier against Namibia

Kenya’s Junior Starlets are heading into the decisive World Cup qualifier against Namibia with growing confidence, as they look to finish the job on home soil on Saturday.

The Kenyan U17 girls, under head coach Mildred Cheche, carry a slim 2-1 advantage from the first leg played in Windhoek.

The return match will be staged at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, where the team hopes home support will push them over the line.

Speaking ahead of the match, Cheche said her side now understands Namibia much better compared to the first meeting.

She explained that the team has adjusted its tactics after studying how the Baby Gladiators play, giving Kenya an edge going into the clash.

In the first leg, Kenya made a strong start with quick goals from Lindey Weey Atieno and Faith Boke, putting Namibia under early pressure. However, the hosts responded late in the game, pulling one goal back to keep the tie alive.

Cheche noted that one of the positives from that match was her team’s composure and ability to create chances. She admitted finishing was a challenge but revealed they have worked on it in training ahead of the return leg.

The Junior Starlets are chasing a place in the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup for the second time in three years.

Cheche, who guided the team to a historic qualification in 2024, believes the current squad—despite having many new players—has what it takes to progress.

She has also called on fans to turn up in large numbers, saying home support will be key in motivating the young players.

If Kenya secures victory, they will advance to the next round where they could face either Uganda or Zimbabwe later in May.

Kick-off is set for 3pm, with the Starlets just one step away from moving closer to another World Cup appearance.