The Kenya U17 Junior starlets National Team, u17 Junior Starlets, head coach Mildred Cheche, has named the final 23-player squad set to compete in the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. The tournament will run from October 16 to November 3, 2024, and will mark Kenya’s debut at this prestigious global event.
Among the notable absences from the squad are Claire Meris, Mitshelle Waithera, and Sheryl Amuok. Despite playing crucial roles during the World Cup qualifiers, the coaching team decided to prioritize fitness, form, and tactical fit as they look to assemble the strongest possible team for the tournament. Sheryl Amuok’s exclusion is particularly significant, as she sustained a knee injury during the East Africa School Games, making her unavailable for selection.
Head coach Mildred Cheche emphasized that although these players have not made the final roster, their contributions have been vital in the team’s journey to the World Cup. “They remain key figures in our program and have shown exceptional commitment throughout the campaign,” said Cheche.
Pre-Tournament Preparations in Spain
The Junior Starlets are set to leave for Spain on Thursday morning for a pre-World Cup training camp. During their stay, the team will participate in a series of friendly matches aimed at refining their skills and tactics ahead of their World Cup debut. The matches will help the players adapt to high-level competition as they prepare for the group stage.
Tough Group Stage Fixtures
Kenya’s Junior Starlets will face formidable opponents in the group stage. Their first match is against England on October 18, followed by a clash with Korea DPR on October 20. They will conclude their group stage fixtures against Mexico on October 24.
While this will be the Junior Starlets’ first-ever appearance at the World Cup, the team is determined to represent Kenya with pride and prove themselves on the global stage.
Final Squad
Goalkeepers
- Velma Auma
- Ephy Awuor (Madira Girls)
- Scovia Awuor
Defenders
- Elizabeth 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
As the countdown to the World Cup begins, fans across Kenya are rallying behind the Junior Starlets, eager to see how the young stars perform on the global stage.