Kenya’s Junior Starlets are heading to the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup after eliminating South Africa in the final round of the African qualifiers on Sunday.
The Kenyan girls secured their place at the global tournament after holding South Africa to a goalless draw at Nyayo National Stadium, sealing a 2-0 aggregate victory following their first leg win in Pretoria.
The result sees Kenya qualify for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup for the second consecutive time after making history with their maiden appearance at the 2024 tournament in the Dominican Republic.
Junior Starlets went into the return leg with a two-goal advantage thanks to goals from Joan Ogola and Edinah Nasipwondi in the first match played in South Africa.
Needing only to avoid defeat at home, the Mildred Cheche coached side put up a disciplined performance to keep South Africa at bay and protect their aggregate lead until the final whistle.
The qualification is another major milestone for Kenyan women’s football, with the Junior Starlets once again proving they can compete against some of Africa’s top teams.
“Congratulations to our Junior Starlets for qualifying for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. You have made the country proud,” Football Kenya Federation said after the match.
The 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 8, with Africa represented by four teams.