World Cup dream drives Starlets in crucial Tanzania tie

Kenya holds a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg on February 7, 2026, in Nairobi, where Elizabeth Mideva scored late to give the Junior Starlets the edge. But with 90 minutes separating them from progression to the fourth and final qualifying round, the mood in camp is focused rather than celebratory.

Midfielder Sunira Manda says the team has used the days leading up to the clash to correct mistakes from the first encounter.

“The journey was good. We arrived safely, and we have trained well,” she said. “The coaches worked on the weaknesses we saw in the first game, and we are ready for the second leg.”

Fully aware of the challenge posed by the hosts, Manda believes Kenya has the mentality to handle the pressure.

“We know it will not be easy. But we are not easy either,” she said. “We will fight, we will push, and if everything goes well, we will win. Our morale is high, and everyone believes.”

She underlined the significance of the tie in clear terms.

“This game is very important for us because our vision is to go to the World Cup. It’s a must-win match if we want to achieve that dream.”

Midfield partner Pearl Olesi acknowledged Tanzania’s quality but expressed confidence in Kenya’s preparation.

“Our opponents were good, but we have worked hard, and the coaches have given us everything we need,” Olesi said. “For this next game, we promise that we will get the win. Kenya has the advantage.”

Versatile fullback Patience Asiko added that the squad has adapted well to conditions in Dar es Salaam, including the heat and playing surface.

“We came here looking for another win to go to the next stage,” Asiko said. “Whether the pitch is bad or good, we play. We don’t choose the ground. We are ready to show that we can win anywhere.”

She also called on Kenyan fans in Tanzania to turn up in numbers and rally behind the team.

“Come and support us. Give us morale. We promise to go home with a win and move to the next stage.”

The aggregate winner will advance to the final qualification round in May, where they will face either Cameroon or Botswana.

Additional reporting by Moi Thugi