Mildred Cheche explains how Junior Starlets outclassed South Africa
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 05.07.26. | 12:07
Cheche will be hoping to guide the Junior Starlets back to the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup after leading them to a historic debut at the 2024 tournament in the Dominican Republic.
Kenya U17 women's national team coach Mildred Cheche has revealed the formula that helped her side overcome South Africa and gain a significant advantage ahead of the decisive second leg of their FIFA U17 Women's World Cup qualifier.
The Junior Starlets faced South Africa in the first leg of the third and final round of the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup qualifiers on Saturday, 5 July, at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa, where Kenya secured an impressive 2-0 victory.
Faith Boke and the prolific Brenda Achieng scored on either side of halftime to hand Kenya a commanding lead, while goalkeeper Mishel Okoya also played a crucial role by saving a South African penalty in the first half.
Speaking after the match, a delighted Cheche revealed what made the difference. “What worked well is that we were able to play our game. The girls were composed and utilized the chances that we got,” said Cheche.
Despite the healthy first-leg advantage, Cheche insisted the job is not yet done, although she acknowledged the importance of the result.
“An away win is the first step towards going to the World Cup. The girls did extremely well. They played well and delivered despite the pressure,” she said.
Junior Starlets midfielder Lindey Weey Atieno credited the victory to the team's unity and shared determination.
“We had teamwork. All of us decided to fight for the team, the badge, our parents and the country at large,” said Atieno.
Kenya will host the decisive second leg on Sunday, 13 July, at Nyayo National Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 pm. Entry to the regular stands will be free, while VIP tickets will cost KSh 500.
Cheche will be hoping to guide the Junior Starlets back to the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup after leading them to a historic debut at the 2024 tournament in the Dominican Republic.
Kenya's qualification hopes ended in the final round of the 2025 qualifiers after they were eliminated by Cameroon.
