Kenyan forward Marion Serenge has become the latest player to make a mark on the global stage at the ongoing 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic. Serenge ranks among the top five fastest players since the tournament began on October 16, joining notable names like Trinity Armstrong (USA), Noemi Camacho (Ecuador), Jane Oboavwoduo (England), and Lauryn Thompson (England).

This accomplishment makes Serenge the third Kenyan to make history at the championship, following Lornah Faith, who won the Player of the Match award against Mexico, and Valarie Nekesa, who became the first Kenyan to score in any FIFA World Cup, male or female.

Overwhelmed by the honor, Serenge expressed her gratitude, saying, “Lord, your daughter is grateful. I feel really honored with this recognition.” Her social media was flooded with congratulatory messages celebrating her achievement. Dan Woud Ruoth wrote, “Wow. Congratulations. You deserved a goal to crown it. But this is just the first of many accolades coming your way.” Socrates Lubale added, “Congrats Marion. I celebrate you as the first Kenyan player to achieve this feat.” Encouraging her to keep striving, George Obambo commented, “Congratulations, never give up. Continue practicing to excel in the sport.”

Reflecting on Kenya’s performance, which saw them finish third in their group with three points, Serenge attributed their success to following their coach’s guidance, which helped the team stay composed and coordinated on the field. “We comfortably settled into the game without any pressure. Our coordination was great, allowing us to spot each other well and make neat passes that led to goals,” she shared.

Serenge, a student at Archbishop Njenga Girls High School, assessed the tournament as challenging yet rewarding. She believes that Kenya’s debut was a valuable learning experience that will make them stronger contenders in the future. “We had high expectations, but it is what it is. We applied all the tactical skills we learned from our coaches, and I don’t think a third-place finish in our first attempt is all that bad,” she stated.

Reflecting on their international opponents, she noted, “Most teams in this World Cup, especially those in our pool, have been competing at this level for years, giving them an experience advantage. But we’ve started to build that experience, which will benefit Kenya in the future.”

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