Junior Starlets end World Cup journey with historic win over Mexico

The Kenya U17 women's team concluded their World Cup campaign on a positive note, securing a 2-1 victory over Mexico early Thursday morning.

Despite being eliminated from the tournament after earlier losses to England and North Korea, the team returns home with a sense of pride having become the first-ever Kenyan football team to grace a World Cup.

Kenya, participating in their debut World Cup, entered the match against Mexico seeking their first-ever win and goals in the competition. Their journey began with a 2-0 defeat to England last Friday, followed by a 3-0 loss to reigning Asian champions North Korea on Sunday, which confirmed their exit.

For the final group match, coach Mildred Cheche made several changes to the starting lineup. Quinter Adhiambo and Kimberly Akinyi replaced Lorine Ilavonga and Diana Anyango in defense. In midfield, Pearl Olesi took over for the suspended Rebecca Odato, while Joan Ogola came in for Velma Awuor in attack.

Fifteen minutes into the game, Valerie Nekesa made history by scoring Kenya's first-ever goal at the World Cup. In the 36th minute, Lorna Faith doubled the lead, putting Kenya in a commanding position.

Although goalkeeper Velma Abwire was denied a clean sheet when Alexa Soto scored for Mexico in stoppage time, Kenya held on for the win.

Lorna Faith Wasike was named the match's Most Valuable Player (MVP).

North Korea thrashed England 4-0 in the other Group C game, topping the group with 10 goals scored and just one conceded.

Starting XI: 1. Velma Abwire, 12. Elizabeth Ochaka, 7. Quinter Odiwuor, 3. Kimberly Akinyi, 15. Christine Adhiambo, 17. Halima Imbachi, 5. Pearl Olesi, 14. Lorna Faith, 2. Joan Ogola, 10. Marion Serenge, 13. Valerie Nekesa

Substitutes: 16. Ephy Awuor, 18. Scovia Awuor, 9. Velma Awuor, 4. Jenevive Mithel, 21. Jane Kweyu, 6. Susan Akoth, 2. Joan Ogola, 8. Lindey Weey Atieno

Kenya U20 goalkeeper sets eyes on World Cup after AFCON qualification