Kenyas Junior Starlets Gear Up for U-17 Womens World Cup Qualifiers
Kenya's national under-17 women's football team, the Junior Starlets, is intensifying preparations for the upcoming FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Mildred Odemba has unveiled a provisional squad of 51 players, predominantly featuring talents who showcased exceptional skills during the recent Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) games.
The squad includes standout players such as Halima Imbachi and Joy Angela Valencia from Butere Girls, both of whom were instrumental in their school's national championship victory. Their inclusion underscores the team's strategy to harness young talent from grassroots competitions
The Junior Starlets are set to face Tunisia in a two-legged qualifier, with the first match scheduled for February 25, 2025, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi. The return leg will take place in Tunis on March 3, 2025. Coach Odemba emphasized the importance of early preparations, stating, "Starting our training camp early allows us to assess the players' fitness levels and implement our tactical plans effectively."
The team's training camp commenced on February 10, 2025, at the Utalii Grounds in Nairobi. The coaching staff aims to trim the squad to a final list of 25 players after thorough assessments during the initial training sessions. The focus will be on building team cohesion, enhancing technical abilities, and instilling a competitive mindset ahead of the crucial qualifiers.
The upcoming matches against Tunisia present a significant opportunity for the Junior Starlets to showcase their growth and potential on the international stage. Success in these qualifiers would mark a historic achievement for Kenya's women's football, reflecting the country's investment in nurturing young talent and promoting the sport among women.
As the countdown to the qualifiers continues, the nation eagerly anticipates the Junior Starlets' performance, hoping for a positive outcome that will elevate Kenya's standing in women's football globally.
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