Kenyan Junior Starlets Advance to FIFA U17 World Cup Qualifiers…

The Kenyan U17 women’s football team, the Junior Starlets, defeated Uganda 3-0, securing advancement to the next round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. President William Ruto and other officials praised the team’s performance and the government’s investment in sports. They will face Cameroon for a chance to qualify for the World Cup in Morocco in 2025.

Following a decisive victory against Uganda, the Kenyan U17 women’s football team, the Junior Starlets, has sparked excitement for a prospective FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup participation. The team triumphed 3-0 on March 16, securing a 5-0 aggregate win in the second qualifying round, having received a bye in the first. This success has advanced them to the third round, where they will face Cameroon for a chance to compete in the World Cup scheduled for Morocco in October 2025.

During the match held at Nyayo National Stadium, Patience Asiko initiated scoring in the first half. Substitute Brenda Achieng significantly contributed by scoring twice in the second half, leading to the team’s impressive home win. Kenyans expressed their joy and pride across social media platforms following the qualification.

President William Ruto was among the first to congratulate the team, stating, “Congratulations to our Under 17 Starlets team for a resounding 3-0 victory over Uganda. Your triumph is a statement that Kenya’s young talents are ready to conquer the big stage… Keep the fire burning, keep striving for excellence, and let the world see what Kenya is made of.” His remarks highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent in the nation.

Sports Principal Secretary Eng. Peter Tum attributed this achievement to investments in grassroots football and pledged ongoing support for the Junior Starlets as they prepare for the upcoming match against Cameroon. He remarked, “What a remarkable afternoon for Kenyan football! This victory reflects H.E. President William Samoei Ruto’s deliberate investment in grassroots talent development. Young stars like Elizabeth Ochaka have risen through structured programs… We pledge continued support for the Junior Starlets.”

The commendable growth towards gender equality in Kenya was also noted by Reliable Tax, who stated, “You can see women equality in Kenya is way ahead of East African neighbors. Kenyan women dominate in all sectors and are fully liberated. Sports is where you can see how free a society is.”

Shila Ankal acknowledged the victory but urged the team to rectify mistakes observed during the match, emphasizing the need for precision as they prepare for Cameroon. Supportive reactions focused on team dynamics, with one commentator praising coach Mildred Cheche’s promising future in football coaching, hinting at her potential to venture into European coaching opportunities.

Amos Opiyo expressed confidence in the team’s ability to excel, noting their commendable skills and openness to competition. However, player Imbugi Odemu cautioned against inefficiency in goal-scoring, arguing that missed opportunities might hinder future performances. Anthony Ndegwa lauded Achieng, calling her a “national treasure” who has the potential to attract interest from premier leagues globally.

The Junior Starlets will face Cameroon on April 18, 2025, at home, followed by an away match on April 25, 2025, as they pursue their dream of World Cup qualification.

The Junior Starlets’ recent success has ignited optimism in Kenya regarding their participation in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. Key figures, including President William Ruto and Sports Principal Secretary Eng. Peter Tum, have praised the team and emphasized the significance of investment in grassroots talent. As they prepare for their next matches against Cameroon, it is essential for the team to address areas of improvement while maintaining their impressive trajectory in women’s football.

Original Source: www.mozzartsport.co.ke