Kenya’s Rising Starlets coach names final squad for Tanzania clash
By Joel Masibo, February 3, 2026Kenya’s Rising Starlets head coach Jackline Juma has named the final squad that will represent the country in the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier, as the national U20 women’s team intensifies preparations for the crucial assignment against Tanzania on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Juma has paraded a balanced squad, blending defensive solidity with attacking flair as the Starlets aim to make an impact on the continental stage.
Initially, Juma named the provisional squad of 32 players for the third round of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Tanzania.
The Rising Starlets head into the next phase of qualification on the back of an impressive second-round performance against Ethiopia, where Kenya secured a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory to book their place in the third round.
The two-legged tie against Tanzania will see the Rising Starlets host the first leg at home before travelling away for the decisive return fixture. The first leg will be played on February 7, 2026, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 pm. The return leg will take place on February 14, 2026, at the Azam Complex in Tanzania, kicking off at 4:00 pm.
Goalkeepers
The responsibility between the posts has been entrusted to Christine Adhiambo, Velma Abwire and Ephy Awuor.
Defenders
The backline features Jenevive Mithel, Triza Ekesa, Dorcas Glender, Diana Anyango, Elizabeth Ochaka, Lorine Ilavonga, Patience Asiko and Pauline Namisi.
Midfielders
Kenya’s engine room will be marshalled by Pearl Olesi, Lornah Faith, Halima Imbachi, Susan Akoth, Jerrine Adhiambo, Vidah Akeyo, Rebecca Odato and Fasila Adhiambo.
Forwards
Up front, the Rising Starlets will rely on the attacking options of Valarie Nekesa, Hilder Natecho, Emily Morang’a and Elizabeth Mideva to provide goals and creativity in the final third.
With the squad now confirmed, focus shifts fully to match preparation as Kenya looks to navigate the qualifiers successfully and edge closer to a historic appearance at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
The squad features a blend of experienced players from the previous round and exciting young talents who have impressed in domestic competitions and recent national team engagements.