The Junior Starlets’ journey in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup 2025 qualifiers came to an end on Friday, April 25, 2025, after a spirited battle against Cameroon in the third round. Kenya was aiming for back-to-back World Cup appearances, having made history with their debut at the 2024 edition in the Dominican Republic.
The campaign began brightly with a dominant performance against regional rivals Uganda. The Junior Starlets displayed intent, purpose, and fighting spirit, sealing a comprehensive 5-0 aggregate victory to book their place in the third round.
Awaiting them was a tough Cameroonian side. In the first leg played in Nairobi, Kenya conceded an early goal but responded impressively, dominating the second half with attacking intent and creating the better chances. Despite their spirited efforts, Cameroon narrowly won the match 1-0.
The return leg at Stade Olembe in Yaoundé saw Kenya once again fall behind early, conceding in the 7th minute. However, the Junior Starlets showed resilience, with Elizabeth Ochaka calmly converting a penalty in the 53rd minute to level the match. Cameroon, however, proved clinical, scoring two more goals to secure a 3-1 victory on the day and a 4-1 aggregate win.
Although the dream of qualifying for the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco came to an end, the Junior Starlets’ campaign was filled with positives that Kenya can take pride in offering a promising glimpse into the bright future of women’s football in the country.
Emerging Talents and a Bright Future
The experience gained during the qualifiers has been invaluable and will serve as a solid foundation for the future. Several players are now poised to graduate to the Rising Starlets —Kenya U20 team — and, eventually, to the senior Harambee Starlets squad.
Notably, 14-year-old Brenda Achieng , the youngest member of the team, announced her arrival in style, scoring a brace against Uganda. With several years still eligible at U17 level, her future looks exceptionally bright.
Beyond the results, the Junior Starlets captured the hearts of many with their fearless football, resilience, and unwavering belief. Their performances have inspired a new generation of young girls across the country, proving that dreams of playing for Kenya on the world stage are within reach.
The future of women’s football in Kenya has never looked brighter — and this is just the beginning for the Junior Starlets.
2025 U17 World Cup Qualifiers Campaign
Second Round
Saturday, March 8, 2025 | Nakivubo Hamz | Uganda U17 0-2 Kenya U17
Sunday, March 16, 2025 | Nyayo Stadium | Kenya U17 3-0 Uganda U17
Third Round
Sunday, April 20, 2025 | Nyayo Stadium | Kenya U17 0-1 Cameroon U17
Friday, April 25, 2025 | Stade Olembe | Cameroon U17 3-1 Kenya U17
Also Read: Rising Stars To Head Directly to Cairo for AFCON U20 Tournament