Kenya's Junior Starlets one win away from FIFA U17 World Cup

Velma Awuor of Kenya (left) in action against Burundi.[FKF]

The Junior Starlets are on the brink of making history following a 3-0 first leg victory against Burundi in their FIFA U17 World Cup Qualifier match played on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at Abebe Bikila Stadium in Ethiopia.

From the first whistle, the Junior Starlets displayed a sense of purpose, and it wasn’t long before their efforts bore fruit. In the 11th minute, Lorna Faith broke the deadlock, giving the team an early lead.

As the first half drew to a close, Marion Serenge struck in the 43rd minute, doubling Kenya’s lead giving Junior Starlets a comfortable cushion heading into halftime.

The second half saw the Junior Starlets maintain their dominance. In the 71st minute, Susan Akoth added a third goal, effectively sealing a crucial away victory and putting the team in a strong position ahead of the second leg.

The return leg is set for Sunday, June 16 at Ulinzi Sports Complex.

With a 3-0 lead, Junior Starlets are just 90 minutes away from qualifying for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup a feat that will secure them a place in the history books as the first Kenyan national team ever to reach the global stage.