Kimberly Akinyi is among the players who gave out their all at the ongoing 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.

Akinyi mounted a solid defence as Kenya ripped Mexico apart to walk away with three points in confidence, a feat that makes her heart to fill with happiness.

“As a result of that victory, I’m walking with my head held high. I’m glad to have gotten that chance to feature for the country in the tournament. We gave out our all in the night to realise the deserved win,” she underlined.

The Madira Girls High School player benefited and learnt a lot of lessons from the championship, among them the ability to guard and posses a ball, international rapport and exposure, networking, open mindedness, confidence and the ability to be a global thinker.

She is quick to admit that she fully embraced the Caribbean lifestyle in her short stay in the Dominican Republic, enjoying their cuisine and adapting to their mood elevating humid weather.

“Life there was superb, food was sumptuous, people were lovely and the hotels were so big and nice. I got opportunity to taste some foods which were out of reach and I liked them,” she highlighted.

While advising upcoming players who are envious to step into her ‘big’ shoes, Akinyi tells them: “It’s hard work and confidence that will get you through in this sport, be persistent and focus on the goal. Don’t think you are too young to play professional football abroad, at the World Cup we had England, USA and North Korea sides whose players are already doing so at such tender ages, just believe you can be part of that world beating process.”

Akinyi elaborates a number of things she thinks Junior Starlets should improve on now that the team has returned home from the global showpiece.

She suggests that there is need to sharpen the striking force so that the squad’s finishing power can be consistent and clinical.
“Our speed is good, we only need to be regular goal poachers when it matters the most – in the big tournaments.”
Akinyi is also remembering Junior Starlets fans who have been supportive of the team, no matter what the squad was going through.
“We felt your presence even if things were not working out in the Dominican Republic. The World Cup was tough, the first two matches were a nightmare to us, but through your support and dedication we were able to rise and pull out three points in the last fixture. This restored our confidence.
” Also, the entire process; from the qualification, to preparations at Kasarani and in Spain and featuring in the World Cup was not an easy journey, so we appreciate your support,” she told the fans.