The team that ended Uganda’s World Cup dreams is now on the precipice of making East African football history.
Kenya’s Junior Starlets have officially concluded their intense preparations ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final round, first-leg qualifying match against powerhouse South Africa.
The highly anticipated clash is set to take place at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 PM EAT.
After edging out Uganda’s Teen Doves in a thrilling, hard-fought penultimate qualification round, the Kenyan youngsters, who hold a 2-0 goal advantage against their Sunday opponents, have proven they belong on the big stage.
Now, only Bantwana (South Africa) stands between them and a coveted ticket to the global showpiece in the Dominican Republic.
Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s showdown, Kenya’s Head Coach Mildred Cheche expressed immense confidence in her squad’s readiness to take on the southern giants.
“The girls have worked incredibly hard, and the focus is entirely on securing a positive result at home. We know South Africa is a tough opponent, but we are ready for the challenge,” Cheche stated during the final pre-match briefing at Nyao stadium.
The mood in the Starlets’ camp is one of fierce determination. Key players Gaudencia Maloba and Pauline Namisi both echoed their coach’s sentiments, urging Kenyan football fans to turn up in large numbers to fill Nyayo Stadium.
For Ugandan football enthusiasts, watching this fixture will be a bittersweet experience. While the Starlets broke Ugandan hearts just a few weeks ago, a victory for Kenya would be a massive statement for the growth of women’s football across the entire CECAFA region.
