Tisini's Preview of the Tough Junior Starlets Group at the U17 World Cup
In a historic moment for African women’s football, Kenya, alongside Zambia and Nigeria, will represent the continent at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic from October 10th to November 3rd. Nigeria is a seasoned competitor, having competed in six of the seven previous editions, and Zambia, a proven force, are both expected to do well. However, Kenya's debut in the tournament is the most surprising development.
Junior Starlets Qualification Journey
The Kenya Junior Starlets embarked on an unforgettable journey to earn their place at the World Cup, relying on luck, resilience and determination. Their road to qualification began with a direct entry into the next round after the Republic of Congo withdrew from the competition.
The Junior Starlets then faced Ethiopia in a tense two-legged affair. After a goalless draw away in Ethiopia, critics doubted their chances. However, the Junior Starlets silenced them with a resounding 3-0 victory in the return leg at home, putting them on the path to glory.
Next, Kenya faced Burundi in the final qualifying round. The Junior Starlets secured a commanding 3-0 away win, followed by a 2-0 victory on home soil, sealing their qualification with an impressive 5-0 aggregate score. Kenya's Junior Starlets had achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the U-17 Women's World Cup for the first time.
The Challenge of the U17 World Cup Group C
In their maiden tournament, Kenya has been drawn into Group C, a formidable group that includes England, Korea DPR, and Mexico, all powerhouses in women’s football. Fresh from their victory at the Women's U-20 World Cup, the Korea DPR team is aiming to achieve a historic double by winning the U-17 World Cup as well. Further, Korea DPR has a strong track record in the tournament, having won it twice since its inception in 2008 and reaching the final on another occasion.
Mexico also has a strong history in the tournament, with six appearances and a runner-up finish in 2018. England, on the other hand, has limited experience with only two participations, but they did finish fourth in the inaugural U17 Women's World Cup.
No doubt, this group presents a tough challenge for the Junior Starlets, but they have already demonstrated their ability to compete against stronger teams.
As for fixtures, on October 18th, 2024, the Junior Starlets will kick off their World Cup campaign against England, followed by a match against the technically adept Korea DPR on October 20th. They will conclude the group stage on October 24th, facing Mexico, a team known for its flair and passion.
Pre World Cup Friendlies
While these matches may appear daunting, the Junior Starlets have shown that they are not to be underestimated. During their pre-World Cup friendlies in Spain, they secured an impressive 4-1 win over Valencia CF women, drew 1-1 against Portugal, and recorded another commanding 4-1 victory over Intercity Femenino.
Upon arrival in the Dominican Republic, they won their final friendly match 3-1 against the Dominican Republic. As they head into the tournament, the Junior Starlets are ready to make their mark.
Team Selection: A Strong Squad Assembled
Head coach Mildred Cheche has carefully assembled a strong 23-player squad for the tournament, featuring some of the top young talents in Kenyan football. Leading the team is captain Elizabeth Ochaka, alongside goal-scoring sensation Valerie Nekesa, left-footed winger Lorna Faith, and the dynamic Marion Serenge.
Notably absent from the squad are Claire Meris, Waithera Mitshelle, and Sheryl Amuok, who sustained a knee injury during the East African School Games. Despite these absences, Coach Cheche has a deep and versatile squad, offering flexibility across all positions.
The Junior Starlets’ defence will be anchored by team leader Ochaka and center-back Ilavonga Lorine, with Christine Adhiambo and Diana Anyango expected to take the full-back positions. In midfield, Imbachi Halima is likely to lead the line, supported by Atieno Lindey and Odato Rebecca, although Coach Cheche may rotate players depending on the match situation.
Up front, the attacking line will be spearheaded by Valerie Nekesa, flanked by Marion Serenge on the right and Lorna Faith on the left. Cheche also has reliable options off the bench, such as Joy Angela Valencia and Quinter Adhiambo, giving her multiple avenues to adjust her tactics as the tournament progresses.
Junior Starlets' Mode of Play: A Tactical Approach
The Junior Starlets’ style of play has been characterised by a balanced approach, with solid defence and swift attacking transitions. During the World Cup qualifiers, Kenya’s defence was impenetrable, as they did not concede a single goal throughout the campaign. Their midfield plays a crucial role in supporting the defence, dropping back when out of possession and facilitating smooth transitions into attack.
In attack, the Junior Starlets create opportunities from crosses, set pieces, and open play. During the qualifiers, out of the eight goals they scored, three came from long-range shots, three from open play, one from a corner kick, and one from a high-press transition after winning the ball in the opponent’s half. However, the team struggled with converting crosses into goals, an area they will need to improve in the World Cup. Despite this, the wingers have excelled at cutting inside the box to create chances.
The Junior Starlets play direct football, with their midfield aiming to control the game and push the ball forward quickly into attack. This dynamic style has been effective in breaking down defences and will be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the World Cup.
Players to Watch: Rising Stars Ready to Shine
Several players stand out as ones to watch in the Junior Starlets squad, with Butere Girls’ left-footed winger Lorna Faith leading the pack. Lorna has had an outstanding year, helping her school win trophies at the county, regional, and national levels in the Kenya Secondary School Games. She was named the MVP at the National Games and guided her team to the East African School Games, where they finished as runners-up. Her speed, dribbling ability, and goal-scoring prowess make her a key player for Kenya, and she is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage.
Other players to keep an eye on include captain Elizabeth Ochaka, whose leadership and defensive strength will be vital in keeping the team organised, and Valerie Nekesa, whose goal-scoring ability will be essential in securing Kenya’s success in the tournament.
Kenya’s First Step on the Global Stage
As Kenya prepares to make its debut at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, the Junior Starlets are ready to defy the odds and make their country proud. With a talented squad, a tactical approach, and a hunger to succeed, they will be a team to watch in this year’s tournament. Whether they make it past the group stage or not, Kenya’s qualification alone marks a significant milestone in the nation’s football history and promises a bright future for women’s football in the country.
Feature Image Credit: FKF
