Junior Starlets seize control of Women’s World Cup qualifier after Pretoria victory

Faith Boke gave Kenya the lead in the 23rd minute before goalkeeper Mitchell Okoyo produced one of the game's defining moments by saving a South African penalty to preserve the advantage.

Brenda Achieng added the second goal in the 70th minute as the Junior Starlets took control of the tie ahead of the return leg at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, July 12.

The victory leaves the Junior Starlets with the upper hand as they chase a second consecutive appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, which will be held in Morocco later this year.

Head coach Mildred Cheche praised her players for delivering under pressure and sticking to the game plan away from home.

"An away win is the first step towards going to the World Cup. The girls did extremely well, they prepared well, and they delivered away even with the pressure. So, I'm very proud of them."

Cheche said Kenya's composure on the ball and ability to convert their chances made the difference.

"What worked well was we were able to play our game. They were composed. The chances we got, we utilized, so that went well for us."

Midfielder Lindey Weey credited the result to teamwork and the determination to represent the country with pride.

"We had teamwork. All of us decided we are fighting for the team. We are fighting for the country, we are fighting for the badge and for all our parents."

South Africa coach Ntombifuthi "Chili" Khumalo admitted her side was disappointed with the result despite creating several opportunities.

"For today's results, we're not happy, we're disappointed. Although what we were planning in the first half, we didn't apply ourselves correctly. In the second half we tried to stabilize our midfield and go forward."

Khumalo said her team paid the price for failing to make the most of their chances.

"We created more chances than our opponents, but unfortunately we didn't convert even one goal. They only created three chances and scored two goals. That's the name of the game."

The two teams will meet again in Nairobi at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, July 12 for the return leg, where Kenya will be looking to protect its advantage and book a place at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup for the second tournament in a row.