Kenya’s Junior Starlets have been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup following a 3-1 defeat to Japan in their Round of 16 encounter at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Salé, Morocco, on Thursday evening.
Having scored four goals against Samoa in their final group match to advance as one of the best third-placed teams, Kenya faced a daunting challenge against a Japanese side that had yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
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Despite Japan’s early dominance, it was Kenya who broke the deadlock through Brenda Achieng, who finished off a well-timed pass from Bervalyne Awuor during a quick attacking move. The goal was subjected to a VAR review over a possible foul in the build-up, but the decision stood, handing the Junior Starlets a surprise lead.
Japan responded by intensifying their attacks, forcing goalkeeper Mishel Okoyo into several important saves. However, Kenya’s resistance was broken in the 39th minute when Hanashiro Mei capitalised on a loose ball following a deflection off Awuor to restore parity.
The teams went into the break level at 1-1, but Japan emerged with renewed purpose after the restart. The Asian side struck the crossbar shortly after the resumption before eventually taking the lead in the 59th minute through Nanami Kurita.
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Japan continued to apply pressure, and their persistence paid off when substitute Asuka Tanaka, who had come on for Yuka Kashida ten minutes earlier, added the third goal to put the contest beyond the reach of Mildred Cheche’s side.
The Junior Starlets fought to stay in the game but could not find a way back as Japan held on to secure their place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Ghana.
Despite the disappointment of elimination, Kenya can take encouragement from their progress in Morocco. Having exited the previous edition at the group stage, the Junior Starlets went a step further this time, reaching the knockout rounds and gaining valuable experience on the global stage.
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