The Junior Starlets have achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Kenyan national team to qualify for a World Cup. This remarkable feat follows their 5-0 aggregate victory over Burundi in the fourth and final round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The decisive match took place on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Kenya entered the game with a three-goal advantage from their first-leg encounter in Ethiopia. Marion Serenge opened the scoring in the 17th minute, giving Kenya an early lead. Just four minutes later, Valerie Nekesa doubled the advantage, effectively securing Kenya’s place on the global stage.
Throughout the qualifiers, the Junior Starlets displayed exceptional defensive and offensive prowess, not conceding a single goal while scoring eight.
They secured a 3-0 aggregate win against Ethiopia and a 5-0 aggregate win against Burundi, earning their spot in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, set to be hosted in the Dominican Republic.
Junior Starlets Starting XI
1.Velma Abwire, 16. Christine Adhiambo, 3. Kimberly Akinyi, 19. Lorine Ilavonga, 12. Elizabeth Ochaka, 9. Velma Awuor, 10. Marion Serenge, 6. Susan Akoth, 14. Lorna Faith, 20.Rebecca Odato, 13. Valerie Nekesa
Substitutes
- Ephy Awuor , 24. Joan Ogola, 15. Mitshelle Waithera, 11. Diana Anyango, 5. Sheryl Atieno, 4. Jenevive Mithel, 7. Quinter Adhiambo, 8. Lindey Weey, 17. Halima Imbachi
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