Rising Starlets fired up for Tanzania World Cup qualifier

Kenya’s Rising Starlets have expressed confidence ahead of their crucial first-leg clash against Tanzania as they seek to move a step closer to qualification for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Starlets will host Tanzania at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday as they chase history once again, to fly Kenya’s flag at a FIFA World Cup.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, team captain and midfielder Fasila Adhiambo emphasized the squad’s readiness, noting that the technical bench has done its part in preparations.

“We understand it’s a big match and they are a good team. The coaches have given us everything we need and now it’s up to us to get the result tomorrow,” she said.

Adhiambo, who recently moved from Ulinzi Starlets to Tanzanian giants Simba Queens, says the experience has boosted her confidence.

 “They welcomed me as their own. I feel good playing for them and I hope to continue rising as I have done before,” she noted.

 The skipper also urged upcoming players to remain patient in their careers as they look up to her following her meteoric rise to Simba Queens.

“There are many upcoming players but most focus only on big teams. I would advise them to build from the ground up like I did at Kangemi Ladies and trust the process,” she added.

On whether her experience in the Tanzanian league offers an advantage against their opponents, Adhiambo remained focused on execution ahead of the huge clash against our regional rivals.

“What we needed to work on, we already have. Now we just need to deliver tomorrow.”

She also rallied fans to turn up in large numbers to support the team citing their influence as the twelfth man crucial in their quest for victory tomorrow.

“Last time they gave us the motivation we really needed. They are the twelfth player, and winning at home would be a big advantage for us.”

Meanwhile, striker Vallerie Nekesa, fresh from helping Kenya qualify for the U17 World Cup, believes the squad is determined to replicate that success at U20 level.

“As a player I feel really good. We are pushing hard on the field to achieve it. Coaches have given us everything and we will repay them in full during those 90 minutes,” she said.

Head coach Jackline Juma also expressed optimism, citing strong morale in camp.

“The mood has been good. The girls are psyched up, they have trained well and we are looking forward to a positive result tomorrow,” Juma stated.

The coach revealed that friendly matches, including games against boys’ teams, were key in sharpening the squad. 

“The friendlies gave us the competition we needed. We won one game 1-0 and lost another 2-0, but overall, the performances were very good,” she explained.

On the long-standing rivalry between Kenya and Tanzania, Juma remained cautious focusing on the game.

“To be honest, it’s all about the match. Let the pitch decide who wins. History is history, but tomorrow there is a chance for each side to have their say. A win in the first match would be a big plus since we don’t know what might happen away. We want maximum points at home.” 

She also highlighted the importance of players graduating from the U17 team, saying they have blended well with league and school-based players to create a competitive squad.

Kenya’s U17 Starlets were the first ever Kenyan team to qualify for FIFA competition, qualifying for the U17 World Cup in 2024

Addressing injury concerns, Juma confirmed the team is fully fit. “At the moment we have no injuries. There were minor knocks but they have been handled, and the full squad is ready.”

The Rising Starlets will now look to convert their preparations into results on home soil.