Kenya’s Junior Starlets took a giant step towards securing a second consecutive FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup appearance after defeating South Africa 2-0 in the first leg of the final qualification round on Saturday in Pretoria.
Mildred Cheche’s side produced a disciplined performance at Lucas Moripe Stadium to seize control of the tie ahead of next weekend’s decisive return leg at Nyayo National Stadium.
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Despite South Africa making the brighter start, it was Kenya who struck first in the 23rd minute. Faith Boke capped off a swift attacking move with a composed finish to hand the visitors a crucial lead against the run of play.
The hosts were handed a golden opportunity to level matters shortly afterwards when they won a penalty, but goalkeeper Mishel Okoyo emerged as Kenya’s hero, producing a superb save to deny South African captain Koketso Malebana from the spot.
Kenya grew in confidence after the break and continued to threaten on the counterattack. Their persistence paid off in the 70th minute when Brenda Achieng calmly slotted home the second goal to put the Junior Starlets firmly in command.
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South Africa pushed for a way back into the contest, but the Kenyan defence stood firm while Okoyo remained assured whenever called into action.
The victory leaves Kenya just 90 minutes away from another historic milestone. Having become the country’s first-ever team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup in 2024, the Junior Starlets are now on the brink of becoming the first Kenyan side—men or women—to qualify for the global tournament twice.
The return leg will be played at Nyayo National Stadium, where the winner on aggregate will book a place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
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