The Junior Starlets are set for a thrilling encounter as they kick off their journey toward the 2025 U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup with a crucial qualifier against Uganda. With a historic World Cup appearance already under their belt, the young Kenyan side is determined to secure back-to-back global tournament qualifications.
Aiming for Another Historic Feat
Under the leadership of head coach Mildred Cheche, the Junior Starlets will battle Uganda in the second round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers. The match, scheduled for Saturday, March 8, will take place at Hamz Stadium in Kampala.
The winner of this two-legged clash will advance to face either Ethiopia or Cameroon in the next stage, with only three African teams securing tickets to the prestigious tournament set to be held in Morocco next year.
Amb. @MaangiJoash MBS, Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, paid a courtesy visit to the Junior Starlets this evening, wishing them the best ahead of their first-leg clash against Uganda tomorrow at Nakivubo Stadium. pic.twitter.com/XGDRGgIjd5
— Football Kenya Federation (@Football_Kenya) March 7, 2025
Coach Cheche’s Confidence in Her Team
Coach Mildred Cheche is upbeat about her team’s chances and believes that past experience will be a driving force for her squad.
“We tasted what it feels like to play at a World Cup, and that has fueled our hunger for another opportunity. The girls want to go back, and the new players who have joined the squad are eager to experience that stage as well,” Cheche told CAFOnline.
The Junior Starlets squad features a mix of experienced players from last year’s U-17 World Cup team, as well as fresh talent from the U-15 setup, ensuring depth and continuity.
Uganda’s Formidable Challenge
While Kenya enters this tie with confidence, Uganda is a formidable opponent. The hosts head into the fixture on the back of an impressive 18-1 aggregate victory over Namibia in the first round of qualifiers. Uganda’s dominant 10-0 win in the first leg and 8-1 triumph in the second highlight their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
Despite acknowledging Uganda’s form, Cheche remains unshaken.
“Football is a game of 90 minutes, and the team that prepares well takes the three points. Uganda is well-organized, but we have studied their approach and will be ready for the challenge,” she added.
New Leadership: Halima Imbachi Takes Over as Captain
A major change in the Kenyan camp sees Halima Imbachi stepping up as the new Junior Starlets captain, replacing Elizabeth Ochaka. The young skipper understands the magnitude of the derby clash and has rallied her teammates for the task ahead.
“We know this is a derby match between two neighboring nations. It will not be easy, but we are ready to give our best,” said Imbachi.
Uganda’s Strategy: Aiming for Home Advantage
Uganda’s head coach Sheryl Botes is also confident in her team’s ability to challenge Kenya, despite acknowledging the Starlets’ World Cup experience.
“We had eight days to prepare, and I believe we can give Kenya a real fight. They have quality players and a history of competing at the highest level, so we will have to adjust our strategy. We will not field the same team that played against Namibia because Kenya is a much tougher opponent,” Botes emphasized.
With home support on their side, Uganda will look to capitalize on the advantage and secure a strong first-leg result before traveling to Kenya for the return fixture.
Key Players to Watch
- Halima Imbachi (Kenya) – The new captain will be a vital figure in midfield, tasked with leading the Starlets on and off the pitch.
- Janet Nasimiyu (Kenya) – A prolific forward, Nasimiyu’s ability to find the back of the net could be crucial for Kenya’s qualification hopes.
- Sophie Alupo (Uganda) – One of Uganda’s standout performers against Namibia, Alupo’s creativity and pace will pose a significant threat.
- Margaret Akoth (Kenya) – The solid center-back will be key in stopping Uganda’s high-scoring attack.
Road to Morocco 2025: What’s at Stake?
The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Morocco next year, and only three African teams will qualify. Kenya’s history-making squad knows the stakes are high, and a strong performance against Uganda will be crucial for their campaign.
Match Details
- Fixture: Uganda vs. Kenya
- Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
- Kickoff: 4:00 PM (EAT)
- Venue: Hamz Stadium, Kampala
