Cheche backs victory over Namibia as Starlets eye second-round spot

The Starlets began their campaign with a 2–1 win over the Southern African side, known as the Baby Gladiators, in Windhoek on Sunday—an advantage heading into the decisive clash.

Lindley Weey Atieno and Faith Boke scored late for Kenya, while Khloe Teyanna Awases netted an 84th-minute consolation for Namibia in the first leg.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Cheche said many players experienced stage fright in the first leg, as it was their debut, but expects improvement in the return match.

“I believe we will defeat Namibia and qualify for the second round. Most players were making their debuts, which affected their confidence, but after strong training sessions, they are now ready to deliver maximum results,” she said.

If the Starlets advance, they will likely face neighbours Uganda, who opened their campaign with a 2–0 win over Zimbabwe in Harare, courtesy of goals from Immaculate Acen and Lydiah Nameseruka.

The two East African sides met last year, with Kenya winning 5–0 on aggregate to reach the final round, where they were eliminated by Cameroon.

The qualification process consists of three rounds of home-and-away matches. Thirty teams entered the first round, with Nigeria exempted based on past performances.