Kenya nearly pulled one back in the 70th minute when Valarie Nekesa maneuvered through the opponent’s defense line but her shot hit the side netting.
Kenya’s much anticipated first ever national team debut at the World Cup ended in a defeat on Friday 18th morning after Harambee Starlets U17 were beaten 2 – 0 by England Lionesses. This was Kenya’s Group stages opening fixture at the ongoing world cup in the Dominican Republic.
In a match that coach Mildred Cheche maintained her consistent line up, Kenya started in a low with what seemed liked stage fright but the team kept building momentum as the match progressed . Junior Starlets were the first to test the opponents in the 2nd minute of the game after Captain Elizabeth Ochaka made a long ball from defense all the way to Valarie Nekesa who went for goal but her shot was weak and was easily saved.
England came close to scoring in the 17th minute when Izzy Fisher found herself unmarked in the box after a cross from the left. However, her shot sailed over the bar. The Lionesses finally went in front in the 27th minute through a spot kick after a handball offense in the Kenyan box. Lola Brown converted the spot kick, putting it into the right side of Velma Abwire, who went the right way but couldn’t stop it.
Just before halftime, Kenya faced a potential red card scare but VAR intervened and saved midfielder Rebecca Odato from dismissal, only getting booked. England continued to press for a second but Abwire stood firm denying all their attempts.
The second half saw a more rejuvenated Starlets who played with more energy and confidence, dominating the play but only fell short into attack transitions. In the 58th minute, Coach Cheche brought in midfielder Susan Akoth for Lindey Atieno, a decision that sparked the attack.
Kenya nearly pulled one back in the 70th minute when Valarie Nekesa maneuvered through the opponent’s defense line but her shot hit the side netting. VAR reviewed the play for a potential penalty due to a pull, but it was declined.
England finally sealed their victory in the 86th minute after substitute Laura Thompson unleashed a stunning shot from outside the box, striking the side of the post before finding the net. With the win, England moves to second in the group after North Korea who defeated Mexico 4 – 1 earlier on. Kenya currently sits third and will face North Korea on 20th October, 2024.