Kenya U20 coach outlines 3 pillars of U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier squad selection

Kenya U20 women's head coach Jackline Juma has emphasised mental toughness, physical fitness, and match readiness as the main pillars behind her final squad selection for Rising Starlets' crucial FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Tanzania.

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Speaking after unveiling her team, Juma revealed that the technical bench focused on identifying players capable of performing under pressure, particularly against a Tanzanian side that features several experienced senior internationals.

“We were keen on selecting players who are mentally strong because this is a big stage. Tanzania have players with national team experience, so we needed players who can match that level,” Juma said.

Kenya will face Tanzania over two legs, with the first match set for Saturday, 7 February, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex before the return fixture on Saturday, 14 February, at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam.

The aggregate winner will take a major step toward qualification for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

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Much of Juma’s squad is built around the team that edged Ethiopia in the previous round, ensuring continuity and stability.

At the same time, the coach has introduced new faces as part of her broader plan to strengthen competition and deepen the talent pool.

Fitness played a decisive role in the final selection, with limited preparation time forcing the technical bench to make tough decisions.

“Some good players missed out because of fitness. They came into camp while still struggling physically, and we didn’t have enough time to work on that,” Juma explained.

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Players who remained active in the league and those who followed personalised conditioning programs adapted quickly, giving them an edge in the selection process.

Juma also praised players who returned to school after the Ethiopia camp for remaining disciplined and committed to the training schedules provided by the technical staff.

The coach also issued a clear warning to players graduating from the Under-17 level, stressing that past achievements alone do not guarantee promotion to the U20 team.

“Going to the World Cup at Under-17 is not a guarantee that you will move up to Under-20. You have to earn it,” she said.

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While acknowledging Tanzania as a strong and well-prepared opponent, Juma expressed confidence in her team’s readiness and mentality ahead of the decisive encounters.

“There are no small teams at this level. Tanzania is a good side, and we are not taking any chances. We are ready. In the end, 90 minutes will decide,” she added.

Goalkeepers

Christine Adhiambo, Velma Abwire (Ulinzi Starlets), Ephy Awuor (Soccer Assassins)

Defenders

Jenevive Mithel (Nyakack Girls), Triza Ekesa (Gideon Starlets), Dorcas Glender (Ulinzi Starlets), Diana Anyango (Kenya Police Bullets), Elizabeth Ochaka (Kenya Police Bullets), Lorine Ilavonga (Ulinzi Starlets), Patience Asiko (Butere Girls), Pauline Namisi (Dessert Scorpions)

Midfielders

Pearl Olesi (St Joseph’s Girls), Lornah Faith, Halima Imbachi (Kenya Police Bullets), Susan Akoth (Zetech Sparks), Jerrine Adhiambo (Mathare United Women), Vidah Akeyo (Kenya Police Bullets), Rebecca Odato (Kenya Police Bullets), Fasila Adhiambo

Forwards

Valerie Nekesa (Soccer Assassins), Hilder Natecho (Arch Bishop Njenga), Emily Morang’a (Kenya Police Bullets), Elizabeth Mideva (Ulinzi Starlets)

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