Harambee Starlets Make History at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Despite Group Stage Exit
Kenya's U-17 women's national team, the Junior Starlets, marked a historic moment as they made their FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup debut. Competing in Group C alongside powerhouses England, Mexico, and Korea DPR, Kenya finished in third place with three points. While their journey ended in the group stage, they achieved a milestone with their first World Cup victory, giving a glimpse of the talent and potential in Kenyan women’s football.
Kenya vs. England
Kenya's debut on the world stage was against England, a formidable opponent that posed a tough test. The Junior Starlets held their own but eventually succumbed to a 2-0 loss, with England scoring off a penalty in the first half and adding a second goal late in the game. Kenya showed resilience, especially in the second half, creating a few chances as they sought an equaliser. Despite the loss, standout performances by defender Lorine Ilavonga, who made several crucial clearances, and goalkeeper Velma Abwire, who kept Kenya in the match with exceptional saves, underscored Kenya's fighting spirit.
Kenya vs. Korea DPR
The second game saw Kenya up against a powerful Korea DPR team. Coach Mildred Cheche made a single lineup change, bringing Velma Awuor replacing Atieno Lindey in the midfield, but the match was a challenge from the outset, with Kenya conceding two goals within the first ten minutes. Despite a stronger second-half performance, Kenya couldn’t find the back of the net and conceded a third goal in the 85th minute from a corner kick, ending in a 3-0 defeat. Although Kenya struggled to break through, their effort and resolve set the stage for a spirited final match.
Kenya vs. Mexico
The Junior Starlets Coach Mildred Cheche made four lineup changes for their final group game against Mexico, including the addition of Kimberly Akinyi, Quinter Odhiambo, Pearl Olesi, and Joan Ogola replacing Anyango Diana and Lorine Ilavonga who were sick and not fit to play, Odato Rebecca who was on suspension and Velma Awuor who started from the bench. Junior Starlets delivered their historic first win at the World Cup.
Vallarie Nekesa etched her name in history as the first Kenyan player to score in a FIFA World Cup, netting the opening goal in the 14th minute after an assist from Joan Ogola who received a beautiful long pass from Captain Ochaka. Kenya's lead doubled in the 36th minute when Lorna Faith found the back of the net with a left-footed strike, assisted by Nekesa. Mexico pushed in the second half and managed to score from a penalty in the 90th minute, but Kenya held on for a 2-1 victory.
Junior Starlets Outstanding Players
Throughout the tournament, several Kenyan players stood out with their impressive contributions, demonstrating both skill and endurance:
- Lorna Faith: Known for her precision on the ball, Lorna had the most crosses for Kenya in the group stages (8) and was named Player of the Match against Mexico. Her ability to create chances from the flanks and deliver accurate balls into the box was instrumental in Kenya’s attack.
- Vallarie Nekesa: Vallarie emerged as one of Kenya’s sharpest attackers, registering the most attempts on goal (8) and scoring Kenya’s historic first goal in the World Cup and had 1 assist. Her quick footwork and forward drive kept the opposing defenses on their toes.
- Marion Serenge: Marion’s stamina and tactical awareness were unmatched, applying the most pressing actions (117) and boasting the highest receptions between the midfield and defensive line (53). Her movement off the ball was equally impressive, with the most offers to receive (41) among her teammates. Her defensive work rate and positioning highlighted her as a dynamic player in both attack and defense. Serenge was also ranked among the most fastest players with a speed of 30.42Km/h.
- Lorine Ilavonga: A reliable figure in defense, Lorine’s ball recoveries and clearances shone in challenging matches, particularly against England and Korea DPR where her defensive strength kept her team competitive.
- Imbachi Halima: Halima’s midfield control was remarkable; she completed the most passes (82) across the group stage and covered an impressive total distance of 30.87 km. Her passing consistency and work rate solidified her as the team’s anchor in central midfield.
(Player statistics courtesy of FIFA)
Coach Mildred Cheche’s Reflections
After the final whistle against Mexico, Coach Cheche expressed deep satisfaction with the team's tactical discipline and resilience. Their historic victory, though coming in the last match, marked a huge milestone for the Junior Starlets.
“The game was nice, and we got it right tactically. Our girls also gave us their best, we thank God, and we’re happy we’re not going back home empty-handed.”
Cheche’s pride in her players was clear. She acknowledged their hard work and celebrated the fact that, despite the initial challenges, they were able to make a memorable impact on their World Cup debut. This win, she noted, was not only for the players but a triumph for the nation, leaving a lasting legacy as Kenya’s first World Cup victory at this level.
Coach Cheche emphasized the formidable nature of their group-stage opponents, especially England and Korea DPR, who presented high-level challenges in terms of skill, speed, and tactical mastery.
“The quality of the opponent matters a lot, and we outclassed Mexico by using our goal-scoring chances. We had more chances, and we were able to capitalize.”
The coach recognized the disparity in experience and quality between Kenya and teams like England and Korea. However, against Mexico, Kenya found areas where they had an edge, such as speed and finishing opportunities, and Cheche’s game plan helped them exploit these advantages effectively.
Reflecting on what the win means for Kenyan women’s football, Cheche pointed out that the match was more than just a game—it was a chance to bring honor and pride to the country.
“A win for us means we are the first team to attend a World Cup and win a match from Kenya. Even if we have not qualified for the next round, it is a big thing for our country and for our girls to win a game at the World Cup.”
She celebrated the players’ ability to make history on such a prestigious stage. Coach Cheche acknowledged the significance of this victory as not only a motivation for the current squad but as an inspiration for young girls and the future of women’s football in Kenya.
The coach emphasized the importance of long-term development for the players and the impact that exposure to competitive football can have on their performance. She called upon the government and the Kenyan Football Federation to support the players with more resources and international exposure.
“The next step I would wish is for our government and federation to continue nurturing these girls because they have talent. They need more playing time internationally, and if we can engage them in friendlies and tournaments, they will be more prepared for qualifiers next year.”
Cheche’s vision for the Junior Starlets’ growth is clear: they need regular matches and international exposure to maintain their competitive edge. By competing regularly, the players will gain confidence and experience, which will ultimately help Kenya’s bid for future tournaments.
Player of the Match: Lornah Faith (kenya vs Mexico)
The early matches against England and Korea DPR tested Kenya's limits, and Cheche candidly explained how these teams brought unique challenges that Kenya hadn’t faced before.
“The first two matches were not easy. The quality of the opponent was very high, especially with Korea and England. For Mexico, it was a bit easier because we outclassed them in a few areas, like speed and utilizing our goal-scoring opportunities.”
Despite these early setbacks, Cheche expressed satisfaction with how her team adapted, using each game as a learning experience. She credited the team’s perseverance and noted the different areas, like quickness and scoring efficiency, where they held an edge over Mexico.
Kenya’s victory over Mexico and strong showing against elite teams at the World Cup signals a bright future for Kenyan women’s football. This historic moment not only boosts the profile of women’s football in Kenya but also underscores the potential of nurturing young talent.
The Junior Starlets' journey has sparked hope and excitement for what lies ahead, both for the players and Kenyan fans.
