Why it is advantage for Junior Starlets in U17 World Cup qualifier
Kenya’s Junior Starlets boosted their hopes of making a return to the World Cup after earning a valuable draw in Uganda on Friday.
The Kenyan youngsters forced a 1–1 draw against the hosts in the first leg of the second round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier at FUFA Stadium in Kadiba, Kampala.
Kenya Junior Starlets showed strong character to come from a goal down and secure a result that keeps their qualification hopes alive ahead of the return leg in Nairobi.
Uganda took the lead in the 13th minute through Shadia Nabirye after a well-worked attacking move. Immaculate Acen beat her marker on the right wing before setting up Justine Ayerango, whose shot was saved. Nabirye reacted quickly to bury the rebound and give the hosts the lead.
The Kenyan side, however, grew into the game and pushed for an equaliser in the second half with more pressure and better ball control.
Their efforts paid off in the 60th minute when Uganda’s goalkeeper Aida Maimuna Namuwaya failed to clear her lines. Substitute Emily Adhiambo was alert, pounced on the loose ball, and fired home the equaliser.
Uganda U17 Women nearly snatched a late winner, but Kenya goalkeeper Mishel Okoyo made important saves to keep the score level.
Kenya also had a late chance through Sheila Atieno, but Uganda’s keeper recovered just in time to deny what could have been a winning goal.
The tie now moves to Nairobi next week, where the Junior Starlets will host Uganda in the decisive second leg, with a place in the next qualification round still wide open.
You may also like
-
RUGBY
Kenya Lionesses maul Uganda in Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Opener
10 mins ago -
FOOTBALL
Kariobangi Sharks drop into relegation zone as Ulinzi Stars shoot down Mathare United
43 mins ago -
FOOTBALL
Shabana Starlets promoted to WPL after going entire season unbeaten
54 mins ago -
ATHLETICS
Africa’s fastest man Omanyala basks in glory of Diamond League win in Xiamen with another sub 10
2 hrs ago
FOOTBALL
Baron Ochieng wins his first league title with Egyptian giants Zamalek
Harambee Stars defender Baron Ochieng has won his first league title in Egypt after helping...
RUGBY
Kenyan Sevens star Chajira named IOC Athlete Role Model ahead of Youth Olympics
Kenya women’s rugby star Sheila Chajira has received a major honour after being named an...
CYCLING
Cyclists battle for UCI Gravel World Championships slots at Hells Gate in Naivasha
Cyclists from Kenya and across Africa will have a golden chance to qualify for the...
