In summary:
- Kenya’s U17 women’s team will play Cameroon in two games to try and qualify for the 2025 World Cup.
- The team is feeling ready after good practice matches, and their coach wants fans to come support them in Kenya.
- If they win against Cameroon, it will be the second time in a row the Junior Starlets make it to the big World Cup tournament.
Kenya’s Junior Starlets are on the brink of reaching the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, with two crucial matches against Cameroon determining their fate. The team feels prepared after recent practice games, and the coach is urging fans to support them in the home leg.
Having reached this stage with a strong performance against Uganda, the Junior Starlets are focused on these final games, hoping to achieve their World Cup dream and bring pride to Kenya.
Big Games Ahead for Kenya’s Young Stars
Kenya’s under-17 women’s national football team, known as the Junior Starlets, is on the verge of a significant achievement. They are set to play against Cameroon for a chance to participate in the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. If the team succeeds, this will mark their second consecutive appearance at the global youth tournament, a source of immense pride for the young athletes and the nation.
The Junior Starlets will compete against Cameroon in a two-legged final qualifying round. The first match is scheduled for Sunday, April 20, at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya. The return leg will take place on Friday, April 25, at the Stade Olembe in Yaoundé, Cameroon. These two matches will determine which team secures a coveted spot in the World Cup.
Team Ready and Fans Needed
Assistant coach David Vijago, who also manages Kibera Soccer Ladies in the Kenyan women’s league, is optimistic about the team’s chances. He affirmed their readiness, saying, “We have had good preparation. Our team is ready to face Cameroon. We know they play a physical game, but our girls are prepared for that.”
Addressing concerns about player fitness, Vijago acknowledged minor injuries within the squad, including one to Joan Ogola. However, he said that these players are recovering well and are expected to be available for the crucial matches. “A few of our players had small injuries. They are recovering well and will be ready to play soon,” Vijago stated.
In their preparation for the Cameroon encounters, the Junior Starlets recently concluded two friendly matches against Morocco’s U17 team in Morocco. The first game, played on April 4, ended in a 1-1 draw. In the second match, held on April 10 at the Mohammed VI Sports Complex, Kenya demonstrated their strength with a 2-0 victory. These matches provided valuable experience and helped the team refine their tactics.
Vijago has called upon Kenyan football fans to come out in large numbers to support the team in the home leg. “These young players need your support. The fans are like an extra player on the field. We urge everyone to come to Nyayo Stadium this Sunday and fill it up,” he appealed.
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Dream of Playing in the World Cup
The Junior Starlets earned this final qualification opportunity by convincingly defeating Uganda in the previous round. They secured two decisive wins against Uganda, scoring a total of five goals without conceding any, showcasing their skill and teamwork.
The 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup is scheduled to be held in Morocco from October 7 to November 8. This prestigious tournament will bring together young female football talents from across the globe to compete at the highest level.
The Junior Starlets are fully focused on the upcoming matches against Cameroon. These games represent a critical step towards realizing their World Cup dream. A victory would not only secure their participation in the global event but also inspire young athletes across Kenya.
Excitement is building among Kenyan football enthusiasts, with many planning to be at Nyayo Stadium to cheer on the Junior Starlets. The team’s morale is high, and they are determined to put up a strong fight against Cameroon, aiming to make history by qualifying for the World Cup for the second time running.
Coach Vijago and the players are united in their focus and have confidence in their abilities. They recognize the World Cup as a significant platform and are eager for the Junior Starlets to shine and make their nation proud.
This upcoming clash is a momentous occasion, and the team is prepared to give their utmost effort, hoping that with the support of their fans, they will emerge victorious and secure their place in the 2025 tournament in Morocco.
