Kenya’s Junior Starlets took a big step towards returning to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after beating South Africa 2-0 in the first leg of their final qualifying round tie.
The contest, played at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday, July 4, saw Kenya deliver a composed and disciplined away performance against a South African side that created chances but failed to take them.
Faith Boke opened the scoring for Kenya in the 23rd minute, giving the Junior Starlets a vital early advantage and settling the team into the contest.
South Africa were handed a golden opportunity to respond from the penalty spot, but Kenya goalkeeper Mitchell Okoyo produced a crucial save to keep her side in front.
It was one of the defining moments of the match and gave the Junior Starlets even more belief.
Kenya then made the result more comfortable in the 70th minute when Brenda Achieng found the net to make it 2-0. Her goal gave the visitors full control of the tie ahead of the return leg in Nairobi.
The victory leaves the Junior Starlets in a strong position as they chase a second straight appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, which will be staged in Morocco later this year.
Head coach Mildred Cheche praised her players for showing maturity, focus and courage away from home. She said winning the first leg on foreign soil was an important step, especially considering the pressure that comes with a final qualifying round.
Cheche noted that the players stuck to the plan and remained calm in key moments. She was particularly pleased with how Kenya handled possession and made use of the chances that came their way.
For midfielder Lindey Weey, the performance was built on unity and sacrifice. She said the players were determined to fight for the team, the country, the badge and their families.
South Africa coach Ntombifuthi Khumalo admitted her side was disappointed with the result. She felt her team created enough chances to get something from the match but lacked the finishing touch in front of goal.
Khumalo said South Africa improved after the break and tried to stabilise the midfield, but Kenya’s efficiency made the difference. While the hosts had opportunities, they failed to convert, while the Junior Starlets punished them when it mattered.
Kenya will now return home with a two-goal advantage and a major opportunity to finish the job in front of their supporters.
The second leg will be played at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, July 12, where the Junior Starlets will be aiming to protect their lead and seal qualification for the World Cup for the second tournament in a row.
After a brave and clinical display in Pretoria, Kenya now stand just one assured display away from another historic moment in women’s football.
