Junior Starlets return home after victory over Uganda in U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers

The team landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Sunday to a warm reception from fans, buoyed by their strong performance at Nakivubo Stadium in Kampala.

Speaking to journalists upon arrival, head coach Mildred Cheche expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance but emphasized the need for further improvements ahead of the return leg.

"The game was tough, but the girls put in a great effort to secure the win away from home. We had good preparation, and even for the new players in the squad, it didn’t take long for them to adapt. The second leg at home will be equally challenging, as Uganda will come in desperate for three points. We need to fine-tune our attacking play and strengthen our defense," Cheche stated.

The coach also praised Edinah Nasipwondi, whose knowledge of Ugandan football gave her an edge in the match, and lauded young striker Brenda Achieng’, who was recently promoted from the U15 team, as a future star for Kenya.

Midfielder Lindey Weey Atieno acknowledged the support from fans and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), vowing that the team would be ready for any opponent.

"The game was not easy, but the coach motivated us, and we promised not to disappoint her. We are ready to win, whether it's Cameroon or any other team," she said.

Team captain Halima Imbachi echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of home support in the second leg.

"Winning an away game is never easy, but we expected a positive result. Now, we need our families, fellow Kenyans, and fans to rally behind us for the second leg because we want nothing less than three points," she affirmed.

In the first-leg encounter on Saturday, the Junior Starlets secured victory in the first half, with Edinah Nasipwondi opening the scoring before Joan Ogola doubled the lead before halftime.

The return leg is scheduled for March 16. If Kenya advances, they will face the winner between Cameroon and Ethiopia in the next round.