Kenya’s Junior Starlets, the U17 women’s national football team, are bracing for an intense clash against Uganda in the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. This eagerly anticipated tie, set for March, marks the team’s first competitive outing since their groundbreaking debut at the U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
After receiving a bye in the opening round, the Starlets now face a formidable Ugandan side in a two-legged showdown. The first leg is scheduled between March 7-9, 2025, with the decisive return leg taking place between March 14-16, 2025.
Head Coach Mildred Cheche expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, emphasizing their determination to secure a World Cup spot. “Our eyes are firmly on the qualifiers, and we are putting in the work to ensure we’re ready for the challenge,” she stated.
Cheche also highlighted the significance of the Girls Integrated Football Tournament (GIFT) in Tanzania as part of their build-up. “The tournament was a fantastic opportunity for us. We fielded two teams, with one finishing third and the other fifth. It gave us invaluable insights into our players’ abilities and areas to fine-tune ahead of the qualifiers.”
The Junior Starlets, known for their resilience and talent, are poised to give their all as they aim to represent East Africa on the global stage. With both teams eager to make a mark, this clash promises to be a thrilling chapter in the journey to the 2025 U17 Women’s World Cup.