The Junior Starlets, Kenya’s national U17 women’s soccer team, are prepared to compete against Cameroon in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after defeating Uganda 3-0, achieving a 5-0 aggregate. Coach Mildred Cheche and key players, including 13-year-old Brenda Achieng, highlighted their readiness for the physical challenges posed by Cameroon. The first leg is set for April 18, with the winner qualifying for the 2025 finals in Morocco.
The national U17 Women’s soccer team, known as the Junior Starlets, is poised to take on Cameroon in the third round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. Under the guidance of head coach Mildred Cheche, the team advanced to this round by defeating Uganda 3-0 in a return leg match, achieving a 5-0 aggregate victory after a 2-0 win in the first leg held in Kampala.
Cameroon secured their place in the next round by overcoming Ethiopia with a 6-2 aggregate score. In Kenya’s recent match against Uganda, notable performances were delivered by Patience Asiko, who scored once, and Brenda Achieng, who made a remarkable debut by scoring two goals in the second half.
Coach Mildred Cheche noted the improvements made since their away match, particularly in rectifying gaps observed during training. She emphasized the importance of having key players like Asiko to stabilize the team’s attack, facilitating their goal-scoring opportunities.
Cheche also commended young forward Brenda Achieng for her performance under pressure. She stated that allowing Achieng to enter the game in the second half alleviated some stress, enabling her to showcase her skills more effectively.
The Junior Starlets are scheduled to face Cameroon on April 18 for the first leg, followed by a return leg in Cameroon the following week. Coach Cheche has recognized the physical nature of the Cameroonian team and stressed the importance of enhancing physical training.
Captain Halima Imbachi expressed confidence in their preparations, acknowledging the size difference but asserting that mental readiness will play a crucial role in their performance. The aggregate winner of the two-legged match will qualify for the 2025 finals, which are set to take place in Morocco from October 17 to November 8. Kenya aims to make a second consecutive World Cup appearance following their debut last year in the Dominican Republic.
The Junior Starlets, led by coach Mildred Cheche, are set to face formidable opponents Cameroon in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after a recent victory over Uganda. With key players like Patience Asiko and Brenda Achieng demonstrating remarkable performances, the team seeks to build on their success as they prepare physically and mentally for the challenge ahead. The upcoming matches are crucial for Kenya’s aspirations to qualify for another World Cup after their first appearance last year.
Original Source: www.kbc.co.ke
