Kenya Junior Starlets qualify for FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026
Kenya's Junior Starlets have qualified for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating South Africa 5-1 on aggregate. The team, led by coach Mildred Omari Cheche, joins other African nations in the upcoming tournament hosted by Morocco.
Why it matters
This victory marks a significant milestone for Kenyan women's football, highlighting the growth and competitive success of youth sports programs in the region.
Kenya’s Junior Starlets have qualified for the FIFAS U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Coach Mildred Omari Cheche became the first Kenyan coach to guide the Junior Starlets to a second FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after the first one in 2024.
Kenya defeated South Africa 3-1 in the return leg of the final phase of the qualifiers played at the Nyayo Stadium on Sunday. The win saw Kenya qualify on a 5-1 goal aggregate.
Cheered on by the home fans, Kenya scored through Gaudancia Maloba, Brenda Awuor and Elizabeth Alizeba, while Katleho Malebana netted for the visiting South African side.
“I am very happy that my players have worked hard and remained focused to win the two legs and qualify for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup,” said Cheche after the match.
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