Junior Starlets Secure Vital Draw in Ethiopia for FIFA U-17 World Cup Qualifier

Kenya’s Junior Starlets held their ground to a goalless draw against Ethiopia in the first leg of the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier in a fiercely contested match.

The standoff took place at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, setting the stage for an intense return leg in Nairobi.

The Junior Starlets’ goalkeeper, Velma Abwire, was the standout performer, successfully fending off the Ethiopian offensive line. On the other end, Madira Soccer Assassins’ forward Valarie Nekesa spearheaded Kenya’s attack, only to be matched by the defensive prowess of Ethiopia’s goalkeeper, Abebayehu Tassew.

The teams are set to reconvene on May 19 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, where the aggregate victor will secure a spot in the final qualifying round. The winner will then face either Djibouti or Burundi, with the ultimate prize being a place at the 2024 Under-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.

Under the guidance of coach Mildred Cheche, the Junior Starlets are poised to return to Kenya with their sights firmly set on the upcoming challenge. The Kenyan squad, featuring a blend of skill and tenacity, is ready to capitalize on their home advantage in the decisive second leg.

Squads at a Glance

Kenya: Velma Abwire, Christine Adhiambo, Kimberly Akinyi, Lorine Ilavonga, Elizabeth Ochaka, Velma Awuor, Marion Serenge, Halima Imbachi, Valerie Nekesa, Lorna Faith, Diana Anyango.

Ethiopia: Abebayehu Tassew, Lemlem Astatke, Mitike Birhanu, Asore Hayso, Hirut Tesfaye (C), Manayesh Tesfaye, Melat Getachew, Birhan Hailesilasie, Hidat Kassu, Saba Hailemikael, Mahlet Mitiku.

The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to this round of qualifiers, with both teams eager to make their mark on the road to the World Cup.