FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup: Cheche names Junior Starlets squad for Uganda clash

Head coach Mildred Cheche has announced Junior Starlets' provisional squad for the upcoming FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Uganda.

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The selection largely retains the core group that impressed in the previous round, where Junior Starlets recorded a dominant 7-1 aggregate win over Namibia.

The performance not only lifted confidence within the camp, but also reinforced the technical bench’s decision to maintain continuity and reward consistency.

Attention now shifts to a more demanding regional test against Uganda in a two-legged tie.

The first leg will be played on 22 May 2026, at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, kicking off at 4 pm.

The return fixture is set for 30 May 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, with kickoff scheduled for 3 pm.

Preparations will intensify as the team enters residential camp on 6 May 2026, where final tactical adjustments and squad shaping will be completed ahead of the decisive encounters.

Reflecting on the emphatic win over Namibia, Cheche highlighted the importance of confidence and fan support in driving her team’s performance.

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“I think what worked for us is the confidence instilled in my players. The home fans also cheered them well and motivated them to win with a big margin,” she said.

Despite the strong showing, Cheche cautioned against complacency, insisting that focus must immediately shift to the next challenge.

“The win [against Namibia] is now a thing of the past; we need to focus ahead of the next stage, and proper training will guide us ahead,” she added.

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Looking ahead to the Uganda clash, she acknowledged the rise in competition level while expressing belief in her squad’s potential.

“For the next step, we will prepare well because it will be going to be a tough match. Most of my players are talented, and they only need to step up. Hopefully, they will do that in the next stage also,” she noted.

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Provisional Junior Starlets squad

Goalkeepers: Vallary Achieng, Wekhomba Martha, Mishel Ng'ono

Defenders: Pauline Namisi, Daisy Adongo, Sheila Atieno, Rose Nangila Wanyonyi, Grace Mumo, Idah Mobutu, Florence Mboya, Jael Nanjala, Valary Achieng

Midfielders: Bevarline Awuor, Lindey Weey Atieno, Brenda Awuor, Gaudencia Maloba, Fleviah Khatenje, Tabitha Wambui, Mwanakombo Bakari, Beryl Awuor, Grace Wangari

Forwards: Patience Waithira, Brenda Achieng, Martha Musimbi, Emily Adhiambo, Khadija Furaha, Boke Faith, Ivy Atieno, Rochelle Faith, Elizabeth Alizeba

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