Junior Starlets midfielder wary of South Africa despite first-leg advantage
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Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 10.07.26. | 09:29
Kenya will host South Africa in the second leg of the third and final qualifying round on Sunday,12 July, at Nyayo National Stadium, with a place at the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup at stake
Junior Starlets midfielder Tabitha Wambui has warned that Kenya cannot afford to underestimate South Africa despite taking a commanding lead into the decisive FIFA U17 Women's World Cup qualifier.
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Kenya will host South Africa in the second leg of the third and final qualifying round on Sunday, 12 July, at Nyayo National Stadium, with a place at the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup at stake.
The Junior Starlets head into the match in a strong position after securing a 2-0 victory away to South Africa at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday, 4 July. However, Wambui believes the tie is far from over.
The Kahawa Pride midfielder pointed to South Africa's impressive 2-0 away win over Tanzania in the previous qualifying round as proof that the visitors remain a dangerous side.
"They are a well-coached team and, looking at their away performance against Tanzania, they will be a threat even here in Kenya," said Wambui.
Despite Kenya's two-goal cushion, Wambui insisted the Junior Starlets will approach the return leg with the same level of focus and determination that earned them victory in Pretoria.
"According to our preparations for the second leg, we will approach the match with the seriousness it deserves and will not underrate our opponents despite our away win," she added.
The midfielder is confident Kenya can finish the job and book a place at the global tournament but expects a tough contest.
"It will not be an easy match, but we will show great fighting spirit to ensure that we emerge with a win."
Kenya are chasing a second appearance at the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup after making history by qualifying for the first time for the 2024 tournament in the Dominican Republic.
To rally support for the team, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has announced free entry to the regular stands for Sunday's match, while fans wishing to access the VIP section will pay Ksh500.