Kenya’s Junior Starlets Secure Another Historic FIFA U17 World Cup Qualification

Kenya’s Junior Starlets secured their second-ever FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating South Africa 3–1 in front of a packed Nyayo National Stadium.

The home side produced an impressive second-half turnaround, overturning an early deficit to clinch a comfortable win and a 5–1 aggregate triumph. This marks the team’s return to the global stage, following their debut at the 2024 edition in the Dominican Republic.

President William Ruto also hailed the team’s achievement, stating: “We are immensely proud of our Junior Harambee Starlets for their historic qualification to the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Their outstanding victory over South Africa is a defining moment for Kenyan football and a powerful reminder that, as a nation, we can achieve whatever we set our minds on. This remarkable achievement brings Kenya one step closer to the dream of competing on the biggest stage in world football.”

President Ruto also added, “Starlets have inspired a new generation of young sportsmen and women to pursue their ambitions with determination, knowing that no dream is beyond reach. Congratulations to the players, the technical bench, the Football Kenya Federation, and every Kenyan who stood behind this team. Hongera, Junior Harambee Starlets. Nyinyi ni mashujaa.”

Reflecting on their World Cup ahead, this time in Morocco, coach Mildred Cheche has already set her sights higher than their single victory in 2024: “We now have to prepare well and focus on getting better results. We want to go past the group stages and I believe we have the ability to do it.”