Junior Starlets prepare for World Cup with key friendlies in Spain

Junior Starlets' Forward player Marion Serenge control ball in the second leg of the fourth round of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Burundi at Ulinzi Sports Complex. June 16, 2024. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The Junior Starlets have entered day three of their pre-World Cup training camp, on Sunday, September 22 at Alicante, Spain.

As part of their preparations for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, the team has lined up crucial friendlies that will play a pivotal role in honing their skills.

They will face Valencia CF Women on September 25, Portugal on September 27, and Intercity on September 30. These matches help fine-tune tactics and build match sharpness ahead of their debut in the tournament.

Junior Starlets midfielder Pearl Olesi shared her thoughts on the team’s experience so far, “We’re really enjoying our time in Spain. The training has been intense, and we’re looking forward to these friendlies. Our goal is to get positive results and sharpen our skills as we prepare for the World Cup.”

The FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will be held in the Dominican Republic, kicking off on October 16, 2024, and running through to November 3.

The Junior Starlets will kick off their group stage matches on October 18 against England. They will face Korea DPR on October 20, and complete their group fixtures on October 24 against Mexico.

Final Squad

Goalkeepers

Velma Auma, Ephy Awuor, Scovia Awuor

Defenders

Elizebeth Ochaka, Lorine Ilavonga,  Jenevieve Mithel, Christine Adhiambo, Kimberly Akinyi, Diana Anyango

Midfielders

Velma Awuor,  Brenda Awuor , Halima Imbachi, Rebecca Odato,  Susan Akoth, Lindi Weey Atieno, Pearl Olesi, Lorna Faith

Forwards

Valerie Nekesa, Joan Ogola, Marion Serenge, Quinter Adhiambo, Jane Kweyu, Joy Angela Valencia.