Introduction
The Kenya U17 Girls’ National Team, popularly known as the Junior Starlets, has officially named the squad that will represent the country at the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. This prestigious event, scheduled to take place from October 16 to November 3, 2024, will mark Kenya’s historic debut in a football World Cup at any level. Head coach Mildred Cheche has selected a squad of 23 players, including 12 newcomers who were scouted from local school competitions.
As the team prepares to leave for Spain for a pre-tournament training camp, there is growing excitement among fans, players, and the coaching staff. The camp is expected to play a crucial role in honing the Junior Starlets’ skills ahead of their first match against England on October 18. In this article, we take a closer look at the Junior Starlets’ squad, their upcoming fixtures, and the significance of this World Cup appearance for Kenyan women’s football.
Kenya U17 Girls’ National Team Squad Revealed
Coach Mildred Cheche, who has been leading the team throughout the qualifiers, announced the final 23-player squad with some exciting additions. Out of the 23 players, 12 were not part of the squad during the qualification stages. These new players were scouted from local school competitions, showcasing the wealth of young football talent in the country.
The Junior Starlets’ squad is a balanced mix of experienced players and young, promising talent. With such a dynamic roster, Coach Cheche is confident that her team will not only represent Kenya well but also make a mark on the global stage.
Preparation for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup
The Junior Starlets are scheduled to depart for Spain on Thursday morning for a pre-tournament training camp. During their stay in Spain, the team will participate in several friendly matches against high-level opposition. These matches are designed to help the players adapt to international competition standards and fine-tune their tactics ahead of the World Cup.
Coach Cheche emphasized the importance of the training camp in preparing the team for the tournament:
“Playing teams in Spain will prepare the girls well. All teams in the World Cup are really strong, and being our first time, we are seen as underdogs. I see being underdogs as an advantage because no one knows how we play. However, we will be ready for the challenge.”
Key Fixtures in the Group Stage
The Junior Starlets have been drawn into a challenging group that includes heavyweights such as England, Korea DPR, and Mexico. Their first match will be against England on October 18, a fixture that will be watched closely by football enthusiasts both in Kenya and around the world.
- October 18 – Kenya vs. England
- October 20 – Kenya vs. Korea DPR
- October 24 – Kenya vs. Mexico
Each of these matches presents a unique challenge for the Junior Starlets, but the team is ready to rise to the occasion. Their participation in this World Cup is not only about competing but also about making history and inspiring a new generation of Kenyan female footballers.
Historic Debut on the Global Stage
When the Junior Starlets take to the field on October 18, they will become the first-ever Kenyan team to participate in a FIFA World Cup at any level. This is a momentous achievement for Kenyan football, particularly for women’s football, which has been gaining momentum in recent years.
The team’s qualification for the World Cup is a testament to the growing interest in the women’s game in Kenya and the increased support from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and other stakeholders. This historic milestone will undoubtedly inspire many young girls across the country to pursue football as a viable career path.
Coach Cheche’s Confidence in the Team
Throughout the qualification campaign and in the lead-up to the World Cup, Coach Mildred Cheche has remained positive about the Junior Starlets’ chances. She has worked tirelessly with her coaching staff to ensure that the team is prepared both mentally and physically for the challenges ahead.
“We’ve improved in several areas where we had gaps and strengthened the team,” Coach Cheche said. “Playing internationally is different from regional competitions, as we will meet the best of the best, and we need to be prepared.”
Her optimism is shared by the players, who are excited about the opportunity to represent their country on the world stage. The team is determined to make the most of this historic opportunity and leave a lasting impression at the World Cup.
The Impact of School Competitions on Team Selection
One of the standout features of Coach Cheche’s squad is the inclusion of 12 players who were not part of the qualification campaign. These players were selected based on their performances in school competitions, highlighting the importance of grassroots football in Kenya.
School competitions have become a critical talent pipeline for Kenyan football, especially in the women’s game. These tournaments give young players the platform to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience. By incorporating players from such competitions, Coach Cheche has ensured that the Junior Starlets’ squad is brimming with youthful energy and potential.
Junior Starlets’ Final Squad for the World Cup
The Junior Starlets’ final squad features a well-rounded group of players across all positions:
- Goalkeepers: Velma Auma, Ephy Awuor, Scovia Awuor
- Defenders: Elizabeth Ochaka, Lorine Ilavonga, Jenevieve Mithel, Christine Adhiambo, Kimberly Akinyi, Diana Anyango
- Midfielders: Velma Awuor, Brenda Awuor, Halima Imbachi, Rebecca Odato, Susan Akoth, Lindi Weey Atieno, Pearl Olesi, Lorna Faith
- Forwards: Valerie Nekesa, Joan Ogola, Marion Serenge, Quinter Adhiambo, Jane Kweyu, Joy Angela Valencia
These players are expected to give their best in Spain and ultimately in the Dominican Republic during the World Cup.
Conclusion
The announcement of the Junior Starlets’ squad for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup is a proud moment for Kenya. As the team prepares for their World Cup debut, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. With a mix of experienced and new talent, Coach Mildred Cheche and her squad are ready to make history on the global stage. Football fans in Kenya will be eagerly following their journey, and the Junior Starlets are determined to give their all as they compete against the world’s best.
This historic milestone is more than just a tournament—it’s an inspiration for the future of women’s football in Kenya.
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