Confident Junior Starlets land in Dominican Republic ahead of World Cup bow

Kenya’s Junior Starlets have landed in the Dominican Republic ahead of the 2024 FIFA women’s U17 world cup scheduled to run from October 16 – November 3 in Santo Domingo.

The Kenyan team had pitched camp in Spain for two weeks recording a resounding 4-1 win in their final warm-up match against local side Intercity CF on Monday, and are rich in confidence ahead of the world cup bow.

 “It has been a very fruitful camp and as a team we have really gained experience ahead of the world cup. Our target is to reach the semi-final stage and play,” said skipper Elizabeth Ochaka.

The early arrival in the Dominican Republic will help the team acclimatize before the showpiece begins.

They are also set to play a final build-up match against the hosts before the competition gets underway.

Head coach Mildred Cheche will be banking on the fine form of Valerie Nekesa in quest for goals. The youngster has scored in two of Starlets' matches in Spain, against Valencia and Inter City while providing the crucial assist that earned the draw against Portugal.

The Junior Starlets are primed for a face-off with England on October 18, Korea DPR on October 20, and Mexico on October 24, 2024.