Junior Starlets Prepare for Cameroon Challenge in U17 World Cup Qualifiers
The Junior Starlets are gearing up to face Cameroon in the third round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after overcoming Uganda with a 5-0 aggregate. Coach Mildred Cheche emphasized the team’s readiness and highlighted players Patience Asiko and Brenda Achieng’s contributions. The matches will take place on April 18 and the following week, with the winner qualifying for the World Cup in Morocco.
The Junior Starlets, Kenya’s U17 Women’s soccer team, are poised for their upcoming challenge against Cameroon in the third round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. Under the guidance of Head Coach Mildred Cheche, the team secured their spot in the final round by defeating Uganda 3-0 in the return leg, resulting in a 5-0 aggregate after previously winning the first leg 2-0 in Kampala.
Cameroon advanced by overcoming Ethiopia with an aggregate score of 6-2. Players Patience Asiko and Brenda Achieng showcased their talents against Uganda, with Asiko scoring one goal and Achieng netting a brace during her national team debut.
Coach Cheche highlighted Asiko’s contributions, noting her ability to maintain possession, which eased the attacking pressure on the team. She also commended Achieng’s performance, emphasizing her competence in high-pressure situations: “She is really a good player and able to read the game well.”
The match against Cameroon is set for April 18, with the return leg to follow a week later. Coach Cheche acknowledged Cameroon’s physicality and stressed the importance of physical conditioning in training, stating, “We must work hard in training.” Team captain Halima Imbachi also expressed confidence in their preparations, asserting that mental readiness is key against a physically stronger opponent.
The winner of this two-leg matchup will qualify for the 2025 finals to be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 8. Kenya aims for a consecutive World Cup appearance following their debut last year in the Dominican Republic.
In summary, the Junior Starlets are preparing to face Cameroon in a pivotal qualifying matchup for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. After a successful campaign against Uganda, the team seeks to build on their momentum, leveraging the talent and skill of players like Patience Asiko and Brenda Achieng. As they focus on physical training and mental preparation, the squad aims to secure their place in the upcoming World Cup.
Original Source: www.kbc.co.ke
