Kenya has announced a 51-player provisional squad for the Junior Starlets ahead of their crucial 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Uganda in March.
Coach Mildred Cheche has retained 11 players from the team that competed in last year’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic as she aims to secure a second consecutive qualification.
The squad includes returning talents such as goalkeepers Velma Abwire and Scovia Awuor, defenders Lorine Ilavonga and Jenevive Mithel, midfielders Lindey Weey, Halima Imbachi, and Brenda Awuor, along with forwards Joy Valencia, Joan Ogola, and Quinter Adhiambo.
However, Cheche faces the challenge of integrating new players after key members like Lorna Faith and Marion Serenge moved up to the U-20 team.
With Uganda having already played in the first round of qualifiers, Kenya will need to quickly build match fitness ahead of the two-legged tie in March.
Cheche has lined up friendly matches to help the squad prepare, acknowledging Uganda’s strength and readiness.
“If we get past Uganda, we will face an even bigger challenge against Cameroon,” Cheche said. “We have to be at our best, and we will work hard to ensure we are ready.”
The first leg of the qualifier is scheduled between March 7-9, with the return leg set for March 14-16.
