NAIROBI, Kenya – Forget the boys! Kenya’s rising female football stars have swaggered into camp, ready to roar onto the world stage. The Starlets—our brilliant U20 team—have begun their intense training ahead of a do-or-die FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia. This isn’t just a game; it’s a battle for a ticket to the 2026 World Cup, and the nation is watching.
Coach Jacky’s Daring Squad: Youthful Fire Meets Veteran Steel
Head Coach Jackline Juma, a respected tactician, has assembled a provisional squad that reads like a who’s who of Kenyan football’s future. Having been spared the first-round grind, the Starlets are going straight into the main event. Their two-legged clash against Ethiopia kicks off on foreign soil between September 19-21, with the return match set for Nairobi just a week later. The prize? A spot in the next round, where either Tanzania or Angola awaits.
But this isn’t just about winning now; it’s about the future. Coach Jacky has boldly promoted a host of young guns from the successful U17 squad that made headlines at the World Cup in the Dominican Republic. Names like Velma Abwire, Scovia Awuor, and Rebecca Odato are now stepping up to the senior stage, bringing with them a blend of raw talent and invaluable international experience.
The Backbone: Seasoned Stars Return
The kids are great, but it’s the seasoned campaigners who will provide the muscle. The squad is bolstered by a core of experienced players, including Fasila Adhiambo and Molvine Owuor, who are expected to provide the composure and tactical nous needed to navigate this high-pressure competition. The balance is clear: youthful exuberance backed by veteran authority.
The team’s preparation is meticulous. The squad will be whittled down over two mini-camps, with the first group already reporting in and a second batch of 30 players set to join next week. Coach Juma and her formidable technical bench—which includes Mildred Cheche and Charles Bruno—will be watching every pass, every tackle, and every sprint.
With a World Cup dream hanging in the balance, every player knows this is their moment to shine. Kenya is holding its breath, waiting to see if these young lionesses can roar their way to football glory.
