Kenya Junior Starlets head coach Mildred Cheche has finalized her 23-player squad tasked with securing a first-round victory in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Namibia. The announcement comes as the team enters the final phase of preparations ahead of the first-leg encounter scheduled for next weekend in Windhoek.
In naming the roster, Coach Cheche has prioritized continuity, retaining a core group of players who have featured in the team’s previous international campaigns. The technical bench believes that the existing team cohesion and the experience gained from past qualifiers will be instrumental in navigating the high-pressure environment of away fixtures.
The squad features several seasoned youth internationals, including Lindey Weey, Brenda Awuor, Mwanakombo Bakari, Grace Mumo, Faith Boke, Brenda Achieng, and Fleviah Khatenje. Their presence is expected to provide the tactical stability and leadership required to manage the developmental nature of the U-17 level.
Adding to the team’s depth is Bevarline Awuor, who joins the Junior Starlets following a recent stint with the U-20 national team during their World Cup qualifying matches against Ethiopia. Her promotion back to the U-17 fold brings a higher level of competitive exposure to the midfield. Furthermore, Tabitha Wambui has successfully transitioned into the squad from the U-15 ranks, underscoring the Football Kenya Federation’s (FKF) structured developmental pathway for emerging female talent.
In a move to solidify the team’s hierarchy, Bevarline Awuor has been officially named the team captain, with Brenda Awuor designated as the vice-captain.
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Coach Cheche emphasized that the selection process was rigorous, focusing on specific physical and technical attributes suited for the continental stage. “Technical and tactical abilities were key factors in the selection process. This team is more aggressive due to the players we’ve recruited, and many are eager to perform and secure a win,” Cheche stated during a training session at the Kasarani Annex.
The Junior Starlets have intensified their training regimen, which included several high-profile friendly matches against top-tier clubs from the FKF Women’s Premier League. These matches were designed to test the squad’s defensive organization and transition play against physically stronger opponents.
The qualifying schedule will see Kenya face Namibia in the first leg on April 10, 2026, in Windhoek. The Junior Starlets will then host the return leg in Nairobi one week later. Should Kenya progress past the first round, they will move into the second round of qualifiers, with the final third round of the African qualifying series slated for July 2026.
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The ultimate objective for the Starlets is to secure one of the limited slots reserved for African nations at the global showpiece, building on the growing momentum of women’s football within the country.
