Junior Starlets up preparations ahead of FIFA U17 World Cup qualifier against Namibia
Kenya’s Junior Starlets squad has intensified preparations for the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Namibia.
The two-legged tie will see Kenya begin their campaign away, with the first leg scheduled for Sunday, April 12, 2026, before returning home for the decisive second leg on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Nairobi.
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Speaking in camp at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, defender Rose Nangila and midfielder Tabitha Wamboi have expressed confidence ahead of the crunch two-legged tie. The girls also admitted picking vital individual lessons under the tutelage of head coach Mildred Cheche in camp.
Building confidence
”We are motivating each other in camp. For the qualifiers, we are focused because everyone has set their goals ahead of the World Cup,” Nangila said on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
On her part, Tabitha Wamboi echoed Nangila’s sentiments, adding that it is a special feeling for her to represent the country in international FIFA assignments after learning important lessons:
”Personally, I have noted the intensity in training. We are learning more, seeking to adopt and aiming to play on another level. It is a great experience, and I feel good. It is a privilege because most people wish to represent their country, so I appreciate the call-up, and I feel proud.” Wamboi said.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, as the team continues preparation for the particular ties at Kasarani Stadium, Cheche said the technical bench has assembled most of the players from various parts of the country to join a handful of the existing members.
She added that most of the girls transitioned to the U20 side, but she still has confidence in the new crop of players set to do duty against Namibia. Cheche is expected to unleash the skills she recently acquired in the FIFA Elite Mentorship Program to steer the national team.
Bracing for Namibia
”We have a young squad, a new one because most of our players transitioned to U20. So we selected a young team from various parts of the country. Against Namibia, we have not played them before; this is the first time, we do not know their playing style, so we are preparing ourselves as best we know, and we shall see how it goes because it is one game at a time,” Cheche said.
”I think we are going to build a good team, we have a blend of new and old players, and they are adapting well.” She added.
Coach Cheche has named a balanced squad blending experience from previous international assignments with emerging talent, as the team looks to secure a place on the global stage once again.
