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The impossible became reality Sunday afternoon as Kenya’s U-17 women’s national team, the Harambee Starlets, etched their names into footballing folklore. With a dominant 2-0 victory over Burundi at the packed Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata, they secured a historic 5-0 aggregate win and a place in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, set to be staged in the Dominican Republic this October.
This triumph marks a watershed moment for Kenyan football. The Starlets, playing with the mighty support of a passionate home crowd, achieved what no Kenyan team had ever done before – qualifying for a World Cup. They did it in style too, not conceding a single goal throughout the entire qualification process.
The writing was on the wall from the first whistle. Lornah Faith sent a warning shot just a minute in, and the relentless pressure continued. Susan Akoth nearly put the Starlets ahead in the 16th minute, but her effort was saved. However, the deadlock was finally broken a minute later. Burundi’s goalkeeper, Clairia Nshimirimana, got tangled with her defenders, allowing Marion Serenge to pounce and slot the ball home for a 1-0 lead. The lead was doubled just six minutes later by Valerie Nekesa, who displayed impressive skill to steal the ball, drive into the box, and fire it past the helpless keeper.
With a commanding 2-0 lead after just 23 minutes, the Starlets played with an infectious confidence. Their passing was crisp, their movement fluid, and their hunger for victory palpable. The home crowd erupted with every tackle, every successful pass, and every inch of space gained. Burundi, meanwhile, struggled to create any real opportunities. Rahay Roy Nzoyikorera’s late run into the box was snuffed out by a decisive tackle from Kimberly Akinyi, and Esperance Habonimana’s long-range effort sailed harmlessly over the bar.
The second half saw Burundi push forward with renewed vigor, desperate to salvage some pride. However, the Starlets’ resolute defense, marshalled by the ever-reliable captain Elizabeth Ochaka, held firm. Substitute Mitchelle Waithera almost added a third goal late on, but her shot went just wide.
Ultimately, the final whistle confirmed what everyone already knew – Kenya was going to the World Cup. This young team of talented footballers, led by Coach Mildred Cheche, has captured the hearts of a nation and inspired a generation.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, who was in the field cheering the team congratulated the team, and rewarded it with Ksh 10 million. “The first Kenyan team ever to qualify for a FIFA World Cup at any level,” the minister wrote on X. “You have made our country proud, and pumped incredible wind in the sails of women football in Kenya. We honour you, Junior Starlets. Hongera!” Ababu added.
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