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South Africa vows strong comeback against World Cup hopefuls Junior Starlets
12th July, 2026 02:30 PM
South Africa’s U17 women’s national team, Bantwana, have vowed to give it their all in a comeback quest against history-chasing Kenya.
The two sides face off at the Nyayo National Stadium this Sunday, July 12, 2026, in the decisive final round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The Junior Starlets hold a massive advantage heading into the second leg, having edged their counterparts 2-0 in the first leg at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville last Saturday.
Eyeing history
The Kenyan side, coached by Mildred Cheche, is now just 90 minutes away from making a return to the global showpiece.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s head coach, Ntombifuthi Khumalo, remains optimistic despite trailing on aggregate.
“We didn’t play well in the first half as per the plan, but we managed to talk to the girls because they were nervous. In the second half, we tried to control the game,” Khumalo noted. “The result is not good for us, but I was happy with the chances we created. Now we need to work more on how to convert. I saw a lot of improvement, and we will correct our mistakes to head into the second leg with confidence.”
Bantwana are known for their resilience in away games. In the previous second-round tie, they secured a crucial away win against Tanzania before grinding out a barren draw at home to advance and set up this date with Kenya.
“I always say the most difficult game is playing at home, especially in fixtures like this, because you are under immense pressure not to concede,” Khumalo added. “But I remain positive that my team will mount a comeback in the second leg,” he added.
Heading to the clash, President William Ruto joined Kenyans in rallying support for the clash through a huge attendance at the match venue.
“Our Junior Starlets are 90 minutes away from qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup. The team has earned this moment, and now it is our turn as a nation to stand behind them. Let us fill the stadium with our flags and voices. This is more than football—let’s meet at Nyayo on Sunday.”
The aggregate winner of this tie will qualify for the 10th edition of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, scheduled to take place in Morocco from October 17 to November 7, 2026.
