Kenya finally secured their first win in their last group stage of the competition, beating Mexico 2 – 1.
Harambee Starlets U17 team returned into the country on Saturday 26th October, 2024 morning, after a historic debut at the FIFA U17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic. This will be a one for the books moments as it marked the first time any Kenyan team – male or female, senior or junior – has competed at the World Cup level.
The Starlets received a warm welcome at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where traditional dancers lined up to entertain and celebrate them for their fate. The team finished third in Group J of the tournament earning three points with one win and two losses.
During their debut at the competition against England, Kenya started the game poorly on what could be seen as a stage fright. Even though they lost the match 2 – 0, they were visibly the best team on the pitch in the second half.
In their second game against North Korea, the Mildred Cheche coached-side showed improvements in their game play but North Korea was just a hard nut to crack considering their status at the junior level of women football. They ended up losing 3 – 0 but with lessons learnt considering how they conceded the goals.
Kenya finally secured their first win in their last group stage of the competition, beating Mexico 2 – 1. The team on the pitch was free and playing the usual kind of football they’re used to with no stage fright. The moments in the match were even made exceptional with the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez stadium DJ playing Kenyan hit song Anguka Nayo each time Starlets scored.
Valarie Nekesa and Joan Ogola went into the history books as the first Kenyan players to score and assist in the FIFA World Cup respectively. Butere Girls student Lorna Faith Wasike also became the first Kenyan to be named player of the match after her goal and exceptional performance.
Even though she wasn’t on the match day squad for the last match against Mexico, Wiyeta Girls defender Lorine Illavonga was a standout player for the starlets during the competition.
Speaking after their final match against Mexico, Junior Starlets captain Elizabeth Ochaka expressed her gratitude, stating, "Thank you Kenyans, even in defeat, you kept the faith. It has been a great journey. We've learned valuable lessons and return home as a better team. I thank all Kenyans for standing with us throughout our World Cup journey. Even when we lost, our people continued to support us and believe in us. Thank you."
Head Coach Mildred Cheche echoed the pride in her team, saying, "I am proud of the girls and their commitment. At least we go back home with a win. Now, we hope to keep the team together and build from here."
The History Makers
Goalkeepers: Velma Auma, Ephy Awuor, Scovia Awuor.
Defenders: Elizabeth Ochaka(C), Lorine Ilavonga, Jenevieve Mithel, Christine Adhiambo, Kimberly Akinyi, Diana Anyango.
Midfielders: Velma Awuor, Brenda Awuor, Halima Imbachi, Rebecca Odato, Susan Akoth, Lindi Weey Atieno, Pearl Olesi, Lorna Faith.
Forwards: Valerie Nekesa, Joan Ogola, Marion Serenge, Quinter Adhiambo, Jane Kweyu, Joy Angela Valencia.
Coach: Mildred Cheche
Assistant Coach: Ann Aluoch