Kenya have confirmed their final 23-player squad for their upcoming FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifying tie against Namibia, as they look to begin their campaign with a strong performance.
Head coach Mildred Cheche has opted to retain the bulk of the players who have featured in previous qualifying campaigns, underlining a focus on stability and team cohesion ahead of the two-legged encounter.
The Junior Starlets will face Namibia in the first round, with the opening match scheduled for 12 April in Windhoek at the Unam Stadium, before hosting the return leg on 18 April at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Kenya.
Cheche’s decision to maintain a consistent squad reflects confidence in a group that has already built familiarity through past international assignments. The approach is expected to provide an advantage as the team aims to navigate the early stages of qualification.
Preparations for the fixture have included intensive training sessions as well as friendly matches against top sides from the FKF Women’s Premier League. These matches have been used to fine-tune tactics and improve match readiness, with the focus now shifting to delivering results on the pitch.
The team heads into the tie with a clear objective: to secure a positive result in the first leg and establish momentum for the remainder of the qualifying campaign. With experience and continuity on their side, expectations will be on how effectively the squad can translate preparation into performance.
The selected squad features a blend of defensive solidity, midfield creativity and attacking options, offering the coaching staff flexibility in approach across both legs.
In goal, Mitshel Ng’ono, Martha Wekhomba and Vallary Achieng have been chosen. The defensive unit includes Pauline Namisi, Sheila Atieno, Faith Boke, Idah Matara, Grace Mumo, Rose Nangila and Brenda Awuor.
Midfield responsibilities will fall to Bevarline Awuor, Gaudancia Maloba, Mwanakombo Bakari, Lindey Weey Atieno, Beryl Awuor, Fleviah Khatenje and Noela Akuku, while the attacking line-up features Brenda Achieng, Patience Waithera, Emilly Adhiambo, Elizabeth Alizeba, Ivy Atieno and Tabitha Wambui.
As Kenya prepare for the challenge ahead, attention will turn to how this carefully assembled group performs under pressure and whether they can take an early step towards another appearance on the continental stage.
