Cheche confident in Junior Starlets ahead of their U-17 World Cup qualifier against Namibia

Kenya’s Junior Starlets head coach, Mildred Cheche, has expressed confidence in the team ahead of their opening-round encounter against Namibia in the FIFA U-17 Women’s first-leg World Cup qualifiers on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the UNAM Stadium, Windhoek, Namibia.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Cheche said the team had good preparation back in Nairobi and was well received by the host nation, hinting at a positive result on Sunday.

Preparation

”We had a good preparation back at home, Kenya, and now we have a good reception in Namibia, waiting for the first match and hoping to do our best,” Cheche said.

On whether the squad has injury concerns, Cheche said: ”We have two minor injuries, and we are hoping it is not serious. For the U-17s, teams change every year, so we cannot base previous results about Namibia now, but we have seen they also have a good team. So we are not underestimating our opponent, we will do our best on the pitch, and the best team will win.”

In 2024, the side became the first Kenyan team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup, an achievement that the current squad looks to replicate.

”They are inspired that the Kenya U-17 team has qualified for the World Cup before, so they are also looking to go back. It is pretty difficult, it is a long journey, but we are preparing them to be up for the task, and hopefully, we are hoping for the best,” Cheche added.

Final squad

Mildred Cheche earlier confirmed the final list of 23 players who will represent Kenya in the opening round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

Based on the team named on Saturday, April 4, 2026, the coach has largely stuck with the backbone of players who featured in previous qualification matches, emphasising consistency and teamwork as key elements in the squad’s preparations. This continuity is expected to strengthen unity within the team as they rely on past experience to improve their performance.

Several players who have been part of earlier U-17 squads remain in the team, including Lindey Weey, Brenda Awuor, Mwanakombo Bakari, Grace Mumo, Faith Boke, Brenda Achieng, and Fleviah Khatenje. Their familiarity with international competition is anticipated to provide guidance and balance to the squad. Bevarline Awuor has also secured a spot after recently appearing for the U-20 side during their World Cup qualifying matches against Ethiopia.

Tabitha Wambui has earned a return to the national team after advancing through the U-15 ranks, highlighting the clear development pathway available for young players rising through the national system. Bevarline Awuor will captain the team for the upcoming tie, with Brenda Awuor appointed as vice-captain.

The squad selection followed a deliberate evaluation process, with the technical team focusing on players capable of executing tactical instructions effectively.

Match schedule

Namibia vs Kenya — April 12 — Windhoek, UNAM Stadium

Kenya vs Namibia — April 18 — Ulinzi Sports Complex

Final squad

Goalkeepers:

Mitshel Ng’ono, Martha Wekhomba, Vallary Achieng

Defenders:

Pauline Namisi, Sheila Atieno, Faith Boke, Idah Matara, Grace Mumo, Rose Nangila, Brenda Awuor

Midfielders:

Bevarline Awuor, Gaudancia Maloba, Mwanakombo Bakari, Lindey Weey Atieno, Beryl Awuor, Fleviah Khatenje, Noela Akuku

Forwards:

Brenda Achieng, Patience Waithera, Emilly Adhiambo, Elizabeth Alizeba, Ivy Atieno, Tabitha Wambui

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