Juniors Starlets aim to sink Namibia in U-17 World Cup Qualifier

Kenya’s Junior Starlets will be seeking to complete a double against Namibia as the two sides meet in the second-leg of 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifier at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday, April 18, 2026, starting at 3:00 pm local time.

Kenya overcomes Namibia

Junior Stralets carry a 2-1 advantage heading into Saturday’s fixture after edging Namibia in the reverse fixture played earlier on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Windhoek. Kenya wasted no time settling into the match, striking early and with intent. Lindey Weey opened the scoring just two minutes in, setting the tone for a dominant start. Moments later, Faith Boke doubled the advantage in the 6th minute, capping off a blistering opening spell that left the hosts reeling.

Those two quick-fire goals not only gave the Starlets control of the game but also highlighted their confidence in possession. Throughout the first half, Kenya dictated the tempo, moving the ball with purpose and limiting Namibia’s chances to respond.

After the break, Namibia returned with renewed energy, pushing forward in search of a way back into the contest. Their persistence paid off late in the game, as they managed to pull one back towards the end of the match.

Despite the late setback, the Junior Starlets will take confidence from their overall performance and the crucial away victory.

Attention now shifts to the second leg, with a place in the second round at stake, the Starlets will be looking to finish the job on home soil.

Final squad

Head coach Mildred Cheche has retained the core of the squad that has been part of the team’s previous qualifying campaigns, highlighting the continuity and cohesion within the side as they seek to build on previous experience.

Among those retained from earlier U-17 squads are Lindey Weey, Brenda Awuor, Mwanakombo Bakari, Grace Mumo, Faith Boke, Brenda Achieng and Fleviah Khatenje. Their experience at this level is expected to provide stability and leadership within the squad. Bevarline Awuor also earns a place after recently featuring in the the U-20 squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia.

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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