Cheche elated as Kenya holds Uganda in U-17 World Cup qualifier

Head coach Mildred Cheche is elated as Kenya battled to a 1-1 stalemate against hosts Uganda in the opening leg of the second round of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers played on Friday, May 22, 2026, at FUFA Kadiba Stadium in Kampala.

Match summary

Uganda struck first early in the encounter through Shadia Nabirye in the 13th minute. The move began with a clever attacking build-up orchestrated by Immaculate Acen. Kenyan goalkeeper Mishel Okoyo managed to stop the first attempt, but Nabirye reacted fastest to slot home the rebound from close range.

Despite conceding, Junior Starlets gradually settled into the contest and kept searching for a way back into the match.

At halftime, Kenya adjusted their approach by bringing on Emily Adhiambo and Gaudencia Maloba to replace Fleviah Khatenje and Ivy Atieno.

The changes proved decisive as Adhiambo restored parity in the 61st minute with a stunning effort from long distance that beat the Ugandan goalkeeper.

Both sides continued to attack in the final minutes in pursuit of a winning goal, but neither team managed to find the decisive breakthrough.

Tacticians’ sentiments

“I am happy that my players remained focused after going a goal down and managed to equalize against a strong Ugandan side. We now turn focus to the return leg to be played next weekend in Nairobi,” Kenya head coach Mildred Cheche said after the match.

Uganda Teen Cranes coach Sheryl Ulanda Botes admitted her team failed to capitalize on the opportunities they created.

“We need to go back to the drawing board and prepare well for the return leg,” said Botes.

The victor from the tie between Uganda and Kenya will progress to face either Tanzania or South Africa in the final qualification round. The decisive return leg will then be staged at Nyayo National Stadium on May 30, 2026, at 3:00 pm.

Four more African nations will secure places at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup alongside hosts Morocco.

Junior Starlets squad

Goalkeepers

Ng’ono Mishel, Wekhomba Martha, Vallary Achieng

Defenders

Namisi Pauline, Awuor Brenda, Boke Faith, Atieno Sheila, Daisy Adongo, Mobutu Iddah, Grace Mumo

Midfielders

Bevarline Awuor, Bakari Mwanakombo, Beryl Awuor, Khatenje Fleviah, Grace Wangari, Akuku Noelina

Forwards

Achieng Brenda, Patience Waithira, Emilly Adhiambo, Wambui Tabitha, Atieno Ivy, Elizabeth Alizeba, Maloba Gaudencia

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