Junior Starlets settle in Pretoria ahead of South Africa World Cup qualifier

The national U-17 women's team, Junior Starlets, wasted no time settling into Pretoria,and held their first training session on Thursday ahead of Saturday's FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup final qualifying round first-leg clash against South Africa.

Head coach Mildred Cheche believes her side has what it takes to secure a positive result away from home as they bid to qualify for a second consecutive FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup after making history with their debut appearance in the Dominican Republic in 2024.

“Away matches are always tough for any team, but mental strength is everything. The girls are ready to go out and get a positive result here in South Africa,” said Cheche.

The Junior Starlets became the first Kenyan football team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup two years ago and are determined to return to the global stage in Morocco later this year after missing out on the previous edition.

Kenya reached the final qualifying round by edging Uganda on the away goals rule, while South Africa booked their place after eliminating Tanzania.

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Midfielder Pauline Sylvia says the squad is fully focused on the task ahead.

“We are psyched up, we are hungry, and we want to qualify for the World Cup. We will give our best, and everything we have worked on in training we will show on the pitch,” she said.

Saturday's first leg at Lucas Moripe Stadium will mark the first-ever meeting between Kenya and South Africa at the U-17 women's level.

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The return leg is scheduled for 12 July at Nyayo Stadium, with the aggregate winner securing a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, which will be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 7.