Junior Starlets ready for Cameroon test in World Cup bid

The stage is set for Kenya’s U-17 Junior Starlets f crucial showdown against Cameroon in the first leg of the final qualification round for the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Sunday afternoon (EAT).

On Saturday, the Starlets held their final training session at the Nyayo National Stadium under the watchful eye of head coach Mildred Cheche, who was clear she will be looking for a home win.

A win would not only give Kenya the upper hand ahead of the return leg in Yaoundé Cameroon but also move them within touching distance of a second successive World Cup appearance.

“We expect a very competitive match tomorrow because Cameroon is not an easy team. We are also not an easy team. It will be a very competitive match and whoever prepares tactically well will carry the day,” Cheche said in an interview with Citizen Digital.

Fresh from confidence-boosting friendlies against Morocco where they drew the first match 1-1 and sealed a 2-0 victory in the second, the Starlets appear to be peaking at just the right time.

However, Cameroon, known for their physical dominance and imposing stature, present a daunting challenge for Cheche’s girls

She is however aware of the Cameroon threat, and believes her side has the tactical edge needed to counter it.

“There are several areas we have changed and there are several strategies we will use tomorrow (Sunday), so yes there are few things we’ve worked on and hope they will work to our advantage.”

The team’s energy and belief were echoed by captain Llorine Ilavonga, who was clear about their intentions heading to the must-win encounter.

“As we prepare for the game, I'm personally psyched up and I believe in my own teammates and also I believe in God. I know we are going to give our best and we do not look at the physical appearance. We use the tactics that we have and the belief that we have,” said Ilavonga.

The Starlets are eyeing back-to-back World Cup appearances following their historic debut at the 2024 edition held in the Dominican Republic.

The milestone was crucial as it transformed the team from local hopefuls to continental contenders.