FOOTBALL
Frank Rotich 1 day ago

Junior Starlets battle Uganda in decisive U17 World Cup qualifier

Junior Starlets during a training session. [Courtesy Harambee Starlets]

Kenya's Junior Starlets face Uganda on Saturday in a crucial second-leg match of the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers at Nyayo National Stadium, with a place in the next round at stake.

The East African rivals go into the match level after a 1-1 draw in the first leg played in Uganda on May 22. Emily Adhiambo came off the bench to rescue Kenya with an important second-half equaliser after Uganda had taken the lead before halftime.

The Junior Starlets booked their place in the second qualifying round after beating Namibia 7-1 on aggregate, while Uganda advanced with a 6-1 aggregate victory over Zimbabwe.

The match also renews a growing rivalry between the two nations. Kenya defeated Uganda 5-0 on aggregate at the same stage of the qualifiers last year and will be hoping to repeat that success as they push for a return to the World Cup after making their historic debut in 2024.

Speaking ahead of the match, defender Mwanakombo Bakari said the team has corrected the mistakes made in the first leg and is fully focused on securing qualification.

"We have worked on the areas that needed improvement and we are ready for the match. We will give everything to ensure we reach the next round," said Bakari.

Midfielder Bevarline Awuor also expressed confidence and called on Kenyan fans to support the team.

"We have prepared well and we are ready to fight for victory. We ask our fans to come in large numbers and cheer us on," she said.

The winner of the tie will move a step closer to securing a place at the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. Kick-off is set for 3PM at Nyayo National Stadium.