Junior Starlets head coach, Mildred Cheche, has named a 51-player provisional squad ahead of their crucial 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Uganda, set for March.
The squad features several players from the 2024 World Cup campaign, including goalkeepers Velma Abwire and Scovia Awuor, defenders Lorine Ilavonga and Jenevive Mithel, midfielders Lindey Weey, Halima Imbachi, and Brenda Awuor, and forwards Joy Valencia, Joan Ogola, and Quinter Adhiambo, among others.
While the team showcases a wealth of talent, Coach Cheche faces the challenge of rebuilding after several key players from the previous World Cup campaign have moved on.
Players like Lorna Faith, Marion Serenge, and Diana Anyango have now transitioned to the U20 national team, leaving the Junior Starlets with a fresh set of young players to help secure a spot in the next World Cup.
Despite the changes, Cheche remains optimistic. “The squad that qualified for the last U-17 World Cup has largely moved on, with players like Lorna Faith, Marion Serenge, and Diana Anyango now part of the U-20 team. While the challenge is tougher, it’s achievable” said Coach Cheche.
Coach Mildred Cheche.
The Junior Starlets are set to begin their training camp this week, with friendly matches lined up to ensure they are fully prepared for the challenge ahead. Uganda, having already played in the first round of qualifiers, enters the match with a fitness advantage.
However, Kenya’s young talents have a history of stepping up in big moments, and with proper preparation, they are determined to advance past Uganda and face Cameroon for a spot in the U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The two-legged tie will begin with the first match scheduled between March 7 and 9, 2025, with the return leg set for March 14 to 16.
