Junior Starlets adjust their squad for the decisive U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Uganda, aiming to secure a ticket to the next round.
Junior Starlets take on Uganda in the second leg of the U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with head coach Mildred Cheche making significant changes to the squad that secured a 2-0 victory in the first leg.
The match, which kicks off at 3pm, marks the first international fixture at Nyayo Stadium since November 19, 2023, when the senior Harambee Starlets played Botswana in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Kenya goes into the clash with a crucial two-goal cushion from the first leg played at Nakivubo Hamz Stadium in Kampala last weekend. Meanwhile, Uganda advanced to this stage after a dominant 18-0 aggregate win over Namibia, while Kenya received a bye to the second round.
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Coach Mildred Cheche has opted for a reshuffled squad, leaving out key players who featured in the first leg while introducing new faces in her starting XI and substitutes.
Notably, goalkeeper Velma Abwire is set to start between the posts, replacing Brenda Achieng, who was in the lineup for the previous encounter but has been listed among the substitutes this time.
In defense, Elizabeth Ochaka, Lorine Ilavonga, Judith Nandwa, and Jenevive Mithel will form the backline, tasked with keeping Uganda at bay.
Halima Imbachi, the team captain, will lead the midfield alongside Brenda Awuor, Lindey Weey Atieno, Joan Ogola, and Patience Asiko, ensuring both defensive solidity and creative play.
Upfront, Edinah Nasipwondi has been entrusted with the attacking responsibilities as the team looks to increase their goal advantage and secure a spot in the next round.
The changes are not limited to the starting XI, as the substitutes’ bench also sees some adjustments.
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Faith Boke, Brigit Maria, Mwanakombo Nlela Bakari, Fleviah Khatenge, Joyangela Valencia, Brenda Achieng, and Scovia Awuor have been named as the available options for potential game-time impact. Notably, Anifa Bakari and Mitshel Waithera, who were substitutes in the first leg, have been omitted from the squad.
One of the most significant changes in the defensive department appears to be the possible replacement of Mwanakombo Bakari with Mwanakombo Nlela Bakari.
While the extent of these changes remains to be seen on the pitch, it is evident that Cheche is looking to fine-tune her team to ensure a commanding performance at home.
The second-leg match presents a crucial test for the Junior Starlets, who aim to capitalize on their first-leg advantage and avoid complacency against a determined Ugandan side.
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With a spot in the next phase of qualification on the line, Cheche’s tactical adjustments could be the key to sealing victory and keeping Kenya’s World Cup dream alive.
Junior Starlets Starting XI v Uganda:
Velma Abwire (GK), Elizabeth Ochaka, Lorine Ilavonga, Judith Nandwa, Jenevive Mithel, Halima Imbachi (C), Brenda Awuor, Lindey Weey Atieno, Joan Ogola, Patience Asiko, Edinah Nasipwondi.
Subs:Faith Boke, Brigit Maria, Mwanakombo Nlela Bakari, Fleviah Khatenge, Joyangela Valencia, Brenda Achieng, Scovia Awuor.
